DNA microarrays detect the expression of apoptosis-related genes in preeclamptic placentas

Aims: To investigate the expression of apoptosis-related genes in preeclamptic placentas and the possible mechanism of the regulation process. Methods: Complementary DNA microarrays were employed to compare gene expression profiles of five preeclamptic and five normal placentas. Results: Among the 368 genes detected over 35% showed an over 2-fold difference of expression between preeclamptic placentas and normal placentas. Many genes involved in cell cycle or apoptosis were more highly expressed in preeclamptic placentas than in normal placentas. The expression of many immune-activation genes in preeclamptic placentas was also higher than that in normal placentas. Additionally, many cytokine receptor/kinase genes were also induced in preeclamptic placentas. Conclusions: The change in expression of cell apoptosis-related genes in placentas might be involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia, while the activation of the immune system might be one cause of this change.