CD97 Expression Level and Its Effect on Cell Adhesion in Preeclampsia

Abstract

Objectives: Cellular interactions and cell adhesion underlie preeclampsia (PE). The aim of the current study is to investigate the role of cell adhesion molecules such as CD97, neural (N)-cadherin, epithelial (E) -cadherin and integrin beta-4 in PE. Methods: This prospective study included 20 pregnant women with PE and a control group of 16 healthy pregnant women who were matched for age, gestational age, gravida and parity. Standard blood tests and placental cell adhesion molecule immunohistochemical staining were examined. Results: The creatinine, uric acid and lactate dehydrogenase (LDH) levels from standard blood tests were found to be statistically higher in the PE group (p=0.002, p=0.000, p=0.001; respectively). In the PE group, the CD97 maternal serum level was statistically significantly lower, as was its immunohistochemical expression in placental sections (p=0.028, p=0.000; respectively). The E-cadherin expression score was statistically higher in the PE group compared to the control group (3,65±1,84 vs 2,06±1,76 respectively; p=0.003). The N-cadherin expression score was statistically lower in the PE group compared to the control group (1,50±0,82 vs 2,43±1,59 respectively; p=0.049). Integrin beta-4 was not statistically different between groups. Conclusions: Cellular interaction is responsible for PE as in cancer. A balance in intercellular communication, as researched in cancer therapy, may offer the solution in PE. Keywords: Preeclampsia, Cadherins, CD97, E-cadherin, N-cadherin, Integrin beta-4