Objectives: The prostaglandin-like compound 8-iso-prostaglandin F(2alpha) represents an index of oxidative stress and has the ability to induce endothelial derangement, platelet activation, and vasoconstriction. In women with preeclampsia the decidual spiral arteries contain lipid deposits (acute atherosis). Analogously to the elevated level of 8-iso-prostaglandin F(2alpha) demonstrated in atherosclerotic lesions, we hypothesized that 8-iso-prostaglandin F(2alpha) level would be elevated in preeclamptic decidua basalis tissues.
Study design: Decidua basalis tissues were obtained by vacuum aspiration and placental tissues were obtained by excision at cesarean delivery from 16 preeclamptic and 15 normal pregnancies. Total and free 8-iso-prostaglandin F(2alpha) concentrations were quantified with an enzyme immunoassay technique after lipid extraction and separation.
Results: The content of free 8-iso-prostaglandin F(2alpha) in preeclamptic decidual tissues was found to be significantly elevated with respect to that in control tissues. The content of total 8-iso-prostaglandin F(2alpha) did not differ significantly between the groups in either placenta or decidua basalis.
Conclusions: We propose that free 8-iso-prostaglandin F(2alpha) released from the decidua basalis in preeclampsia may mediate maternal vascular dysfunction and platelet activation.