Circulating platelet-derived and placenta-derived microparticles expose Flt-1 in preeclampsia.

Journal article

BACKGROUND: Flt-1 is secreted by various cells and elevated concentrations are present in preeclampsia affecting vascular function. Microparticles from these cells may expose Flt-1. We evaluated whether Flt-1 is microparticle-associated in preeclampsia, and established the origin of Flt-1-exposing microparticles. METHODS: The concentration of Flt-1 was measured in samples from preeclamptic patients, pregnant and nonpregnant women by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Microparticles were analyzed by flow cytometry. Western blot determined the different forms of Flt-1. RESULTS: Noncell bound Flt-1 was elevated in preeclampsia compared to controls. A fraction (5%) was associated with microparticles in preeclampsia. Flt-1-exposing microparticles were increased in preeclampsia compared to normotensive pregnancy (p = 0.02). Full-length Flt-1, was identified in microparticles of platelet and placental origin. CONCLUSION: Full-length Flt-1 is associated with platelet and placenta-derived microparticles. Possibly, the presentation of Flt-1 on the membrane of a microparticle might alter its function, particularly if it acts in synergism with other exposed vasoactive molecules.

Authors: Lok, C; Böing, A; Sargent, I; Sooranna, SR; van der Post, J

• Publication status: Published
• Journal: Reproductive sciences (Thousand Oaks, Calif.)
• Volume: 15
• Issue: 10
• Pages: 1002-1010
• Publication date: 2008-12-01
• DOI: 10.1177/1933719108324133
• EISSN: 1933-7205
• ISSN: 1933-7191
• Language: English
• Keywords: Adult; Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor Receptor-1; Infant, Newborn; Cell-Derived Microparticles; Placenta; Pregnancy; Female; Humans; Blood Platelets; Pre-Eclampsia