Effects of placental protein 13 on the cardiovascular system in gravid and non-gravid rodents

OBJECTIVES: Here, we performed a pathophysiological examination of the vascular function of rodent in the presence of placental protein 13 (PP13) and its implication to regulate the development of preeclampsia. METHODS: Single i.v. injection and prolonged in vivo exposure to PP13 via osmotic pumps were performed in gravid and non-gravid rats to examine the influence of PP13 on blood pressure and heart rate in animals. The effect of PP13 was also examined in isolated uterine and mesenteric arteries, along with the examination of placental blood supply. RESULTS: Human PP13 has a major impact on the maternal cardiovascular system of rodents by reducing blood pressure, either at single or prolonged exposure, and causing significant vasodilatation in isolated arteries. Prolonged exposure was followed by increased elaboration and angiogenesis of the uteroplacental arteries supplying the placenta. CONCLUSION: This is the first study describing effects of PP13 on vasodilatation and uterine artery remodeling. The results imply that PP13 may have a physiological role in improving uteroplacental blood flow. The findings of this study make it tempting to speculate that keeping PP13 levels within a certain 'therapeutic window' during pregnancy may facilitate proper adaptation of the maternal vasculature to pregnancy.