Placental alterations in response to exposure of Wistar rats to air pollution

Author(s)

Sônia de Fátima Soto

• Document type: Doctoral Thesis
• Press: São Paulo.
• Institution: Universidade de São Paulo (USP). Faculdade de Medicina (FM/SBD)
• Defense date: 2015-03-10

Examining board members

Joel Claudio Heimann; Lucia da Conceição Andrade; Maria do Carmo Pinho Franco; Miriam Oliveira Ribeiro; Paulo Hilario Nascimento Saldiva

• Advisor: Joel Claudio Heimann; Mariana Matera Veras

Abstract

Introduction: Exposure to air pollution during pregnancy causes alterations in placental characteristics and may result in intrauterine growth restriction. It was suggested that transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFbeta1), the uteroplacental renin-angiotensin system (RAS) and angiogenic factors, such as vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) participates of the placentation process and regulation of the uteroplacental blood flow. Thus, the aim of the present study was to investigate the effect of exposure to air pollution on the placental morphology, function and placental RAS. Methods: Female Wistar rats were exposed to filtrated air (F) or to concentrated particulate matter 2.5um (P) for 15 days. After mating, rats were divided in 4 groups and again exposed to F or P (FF, FP, PF, PP). At 19th day of pregnancy, maternal and fetal portions of placenta were collected. Placental structure, TGFbeta1, VEGF-A and its receptors and RAS components were evaluated. Results: Exposure to particulate matter decreased placental mass, size and surface area, an indicative of maternal-fetal interaction. Placental TGFbeta1, RAS components and VEGF-A and receptors Flk-1 concentrations were altered and this may indicate a prejudice in the trophoblast invasion, placental angiogenesis and maternal-fetal nutrients and gases exchange. Discussion: These findings indicate that exposure to particulate matter compromises the maternal-fetal interaction and may reflect on fetal nutrition and growth (AU)

• FAPESP's process: 10/18415-4 - Exposure of wistar rats to air pollution before or during gestation: effects on fetus and placenta
• Grantee: Sônia de Fátima Soto
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Doctorate (Direct)