Effect of homocysteine on the structure and functions of human placenta trophoblasts
Martseniuk, O.P.; Romanets', K.L.; Obolens'ka, M.I.; Huppertz, B.
Ukrains'kyi Biokhimichnyi Zhurnal 81(5): 40-49
2009
ISSN/ISBN: 0372-3909 PMID: 20387646 Document Number: 631907
Elevated level of homocysteine in blood serum of pregnant women is the risk factor for placental malfunction and fetal abnormalities. Our study has shown the activation of apoptosis, inhibition of proliferation, destruction of placental trophoblast and activation of the transsulfuration pathway under elevated homocysteine level in the incubation medium in the range of 20-80 microM. The activation of the transsulfuration pathway indicates that placenta may to some extent withstand elevated homocysteine level.