Pathophysiology of Preeclampsia and Possible Role of Zinc in its Genesis

Abstract

Pregnancy is the stage of development of foetus and also a transition in the anatomy and physiology of the mother. During this time various metabolic changes occur in the mother. These changes are necessary to support the growing embryo. Micronutrients, which include vitamins and minerals, are important during all stages of life particularly in pregnancy. Thus inadequate availability of micronutrients can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Antioxidant vitamins and certain minerals like zinc, copper and iron are of immense importance during this stage. Preeclampsia is a pregnancy specific disorder and the disease has been found associated with altered micronutrient levels. Zinc is an essential micronutrient and is necessary for the proper functioning of various enzymes and transcription factors. Studies reveal that altered maternal zinc levels are found associated with preeclampsia. Can zinc contribute to the aetiology of preeclampsia? The relation remains unexplored. This review gives an overview of the difference in normal pregnancy and pre-eclampsia and the probable association of zinc with preeclampsia. Keywords: Angiogenesis, implantation, matrix metalloproteinases, micronutrients, placental development, preeclampsia, zinc.