Title:Matrix Metalloproteinases as Drug Targets in Preeclampsia
Volume: 14
Issue: 3
Author(s): Ana C.T. Palei, Joey P. Granger and Jose E. Tanus-Santos
Affiliation:
Keywords:
Hypertension, hypertensive disorders, matrix metalloproteinases, preeclampsia, pregnancy, therapy, Chronic hypertension, Gestational hypertension, CARDIOVASCULAR ADAPTATIONS, renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS)
Abstract: Preeclampsia is an important syndrome complicating pregnancy. While the pathogenesis of preeclampsia is not
entirely known, poor placental perfusion leading to widespread maternal endothelial dysfunction is accepted as a major
mechanism. It has been suggested that altered placental expression of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) may cause shallow
cytotrophoblastic invasion and incomplete remodeling of the spiral arteries. MMPs are also thought to link placental
ischemia to the cardiovascular alterations of preeclampsia. In fact, MMPs may promote vasoconstriction and surface receptors
cleavage affecting the vasculature. Therefore, the overall goal of this review article is to provide an overview of
the pathophisiology of preeclampsia, more specifically regarding the role of MMPs in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia
and the potential of MMP inhibitors as therapeutic options.
