Abstract
PLAC1 (Placenta-Specific 1) is a recently described, trophoblast-expressed gene essential for normal placental development. The protein localizes to the microvillus membrane surface of the syncytiotrophoblast in direct proximity to the maternal compartment. Although its role has not been defined, increased circulating levels of human PLAC1 mRNA in maternal blood are associated with preeclampsia. Furthermore, PLAC1-null mice exhibit decreased viability in the peripartum period suggesting a role in pregnancy maintenance late in gestation. We examined PLAC1 gene expression in the human placenta during normal pregnancy and pregnancies associated with maternal diabetes and preeclampsia using quantitative, real time PCR (q-RT-PCR). Although there was no apparent difference in PLAC1 gene expression among human pregnancies complicated by diabetes or preeclampsia, an unexpected effect of labor was noted at term. PLAC1 expression in placentae delivered vaginally following induced or spontaneous labor was significantly reduced compared to placentae not exposed to labor making it one of only a few placental genes influenced by labor. The significance of this finding is unknown. Viewed in the context of its importance in placental development, however, these findings are consistent with a role for PLAC1 in the maintenance of the maternal-fetal interface.
Highlights
PLAC1 is a recently identified X-linked gene [1]
Preliminary examination of placentae obtained at various gestational ages revealed no discernable effect of diabetes or preeclampsia on PLAC1 expression (Figure 1)
Review of the clinical history associated with each placenta revealed that the control and diabetic placentae expressing higher levels of PLAC1 were delivered via scheduled C-section suggesting that PLAC1 expression may be influenced by labor
Summary
PLAC1 is a recently identified X-linked gene [1]. Compared to normal adult tissues, its expression is restricted primarily to cells of trophoblast lineage. Farina et al (2005) first demonstrated that circulating PLAC1 mRNA in maternal blood was diminished in pregnancies associated with threatened abortion prior to 20 weeks gestation [5]. We reported that women can become sensitized to the PLAC1 antigen during pregnancy and the presence of anti-PLAC1 antibodies may be associated with infertility and/or recurrent pregnancy loss [8]. This observation was later supported by Matteo et al who demonstrated increased titers of anti-PLAC1 antibodies in women with a history of infertility [9]
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