The relation of the concentrations of TNF, ET, NO, endothelial cell injury of placenta and cord vessels with pregnancy induced hypertension

ObjectiveTo explore significance associated relation between the content of tumor necrosis factor(TNF), endothelin(ET), nitric oxide(NO) and endothelial cell structure of placenta and cord vessels with pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH). MethodsSeventeen normal-term pregnant women (the control group) and 41 pregnant women with PIH were enrolled in the study. The concentrations of TNF, ET and NO in plasma were measured both before and after delivery. The endothelial cell structure of placenta and umbilical cord blood vessels were studied with electron microscope. Results①The TNF, ET levels in plasma of the patients with PIH were generally higher than that in the controls before delivery, especially in the moderate and severe PIH cases. The NO level was lower than that in the controls before delivery. ②The damage of endothelial cells of placenta and umbilical cord blood vessels was observed. This damage related to the level of plasma TNF and ET. ConclusionsOur study demonstrated an increase of TNF and ET level in patients with PIH. The results may show an abnormal maternal immune reaction to the fetus, and the damage of endothelial cell would then be caused. Therefore, an abnormal higher TNF level may have an effect on the pathogenesis of PIH.