Abstract:

Objective: In this study, we aimed to investigate the expression levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) which stimulates angiogenesis and vimentin, an intermediate cytoskeleton filaments, in both preeclamptic and normotensive placentas. Methods: In this study, placentas after birth in 35-38 weeks were included. Ten preeclamptic placentas and ten normal placentas were used. Tissue pieces which had been soaked in 10% formaldehyde solution were examined histologically after routine paraffin follow. The expression levels of VEGF and vimentin were measured by Western Blot. Results: It was found that syncytial proliferation was increased in preeclamptic placentas. Intervillous syncytial knots, syncytial edema, collagen increase and vascular endothelial damage were observed. It was observed that VEGF and vimentin expression levels were increased as a result of preeclampsia. Conclusion: Nonfunctional VEGF which could not bind to its receptor leading to increased VEGF level may lead to inadequate angiogenesis in preeclamptic placenta. In addition, it is thought that an increase in vimentin level in preeclamptic placenta may cause reduced vascular permeability.

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