Cytokine abnormalities in Preeclampsia - a loss of maternal tolerance

This study involves the assessment of maternal and placental immune status at the time of delivery. Markers of maternal anti-fetal immunity have been identified in the placental bed and placenta at term delivery. The cellular responses of the uterus to the placental invasive cells is being examined. The active role of the placenta in modifying this uterine response is abnormal in preeclampsia with a decrease in the ability to induce a passive maternal response. The timing and relevance of these changes in the early prediction of the disease will be determined.

Antihypertensives and their effect on placental and vascular functions

The effects of agents used to treat maternal hypertension are being examined for their effects on placental protein production and immunological function. There are no current studies which have investigated the direct effects of these drugs on placental function. There are some clinical studies which suggest that certain agents are more important in causing growth restriction in the babies than other drugs. We are investigating where these effects are mediated by the placental changes.