Evaluation of expression of SfLT-1 and VEGF in placenta of preeclamptic pregnancies

Aim:Our aim was to investigate expression levels of sFlt-1 and VEGF molecules taking role inendothelial dysfunction, which is one of the major causes of preeclampsia, in the preeclamptic and normotensive pregnant placentas. Materials and Methods: 10 preeclamptic and 10 normotensive placentas were collected from pregnant women and processed to routine histological tissue protocol. 5-micrometer sections were stained with Hematoxylin-Eosin and Periodic Acid Schiff (PAS). To reveal VEGF and sFlt-1expression, sections were immune-stained with anit-VEGF and anti-sFlt-1 antibodies. Slides were examined under light microscope and photomicrographs were taken. Results:In hematoxylin and eosin-stained sections; there was an increase in the number of syncytial knots and bridges in the preeclamptic placenta when compared with the control group. Also, intense blood accumulation in the intervillous areas,fibrinoid structures, capillary dilatation and congestion were observed. In the sections stained with PAS, basal membrane thickening was detected in the capillary vessels of the maternal and fetal villiin preeclampsia group. Immunohistochemical examination;VEGFexpression increased and sFlt-1 expression decreased in maternal and fetal components of control placenta. VEGF expression decreased in the maternal and fetal component of preeclamptic placenta compared to control, whereas the level of sFlt-1expression increased. Furthermore, it was found that sFlt-1 expression was more significant in preeclamptic maternal face than fetal face. Conclusion sFlt-1 and VEGF molecules take role in preeclamptic endotelial dysfunction and also their relative expression affect each other.It was observed that VEGF expression decreased in preeclamptic placenta, whereas sFlt-1 expression was more intense, especially in the maternal component. Keywords:Placenta, preeclampsia, sFlt-1, VEGF, immunohistochemistry.