Metabolic derangement

Pregnancy is a special metabolic state induced by bioactive factors, including hormones, lipids and cytokines. This metabolic state is characterized by insulin and leptin resistance and by an altered lipid profile to promote nutrient transport to the fetus. This fine tuning of maternal metabolism may, however, derail and thus, exceed normal physiology and cause hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidemia and/or a pro-inflammatory environment.

LpPLA2 in GDM – a protective system for placenta and fetus?

PI Christian Wadsack

Aim: Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) and obesity are pregnancy conditions not only associated with low-grade inflammation, but also with oxidative stress in the placenta and fetus alike. In order to protect the feto-placental unit, anti-oxidative defense systems may have evolved. Placental macrophages (HBCs) may contribute to these systems. Lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A2 (LpPLA2) is an enzyme with unique substrate preference towards oxidized phospholipids (oxPL).