The ASPRE Preeclampsia Trial: Implications for Basic Research and Clinical Practice

Placental dysfunction is fundamental to the pathophysiology of pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, but to date, the placenta has been considered in isolation without regard to the fact that its function is dependent on adequate perfusion by the maternal circulation. An alternative explanation for preeclampsia is that placental dysfunction is secondary to maternal cardiovascular maladaptation in pregnancy. The concept that placental dysfunction is secondary to a maternal disorder is not new when one considers the clinical similarities between preeclampsia and gestational diabetes - both pregnancy-specific conditions that are 'cured' by birth.
Source: Trends in Cardiovascular Medicine - Category: Cardiology Authors: Source Type: research