Lipid Peroxidation and Antioxidant Activity in Pregnant Women with Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension / 대한주산의학회잡지

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: To assess maternal circulating levels of lipid peroxides, superoxide dismutase and total antioxidants of women with pregnancy-induced hypertension. METHODS: Cross-sectional study consisting of 18 preeclamptic, 21 uncomplicated pregnant and 22 healthy non-pregnant women. Fasting venous blood samples were collected during the 3rd trimester of antepartum period and maternal circulating levels of malondialdehyde as a lipid peroxidation product, superoxide dismutase activity and total antioxidants were measured. RESULTS: In the preeclamptic group, lipid peroxides were significantly increased, otherwise the activity of superoxide dismutase in the erythrocytes was significantly decreased compared to normal pregnant women. The value of serum total antioxidants was similar in both groups. Strong correlation was detected between malondialdehyde and blood pressure in the pregnant women. CONCLUSION: Preeclampsia is associated with decrease of antioxidant enzyme activity while lipid peroxidation was increased during the 3rd trimester of pregnancy. Therefore, a significant elevated lipid peroxidation and reduced superoxide dismutase activity may contribute to pathophysiology and pathogenesis of preeclampsia via vascular endothelial cell damage.