[310-POS]: Potential role of Klotho protein in the pathophysiology of preeclampsia

OBJECTIVES: An aging-suppressor gene, klotho, is a candidate factor for vascular disease because its deficiency leads to impaired endothelium-dependent vasodilation and impaired angiogenesis. The aim was to verify a possible relation among the expression of the klotho gene, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNP) in the promoter region, and placenta aging. METHODS: Placentas were collected from normal pregnancies (n=34) and pregnancies complicated by Preeclampsia (n=34), matched for gestational age. Klotho mRNA and protein were determined using Real-Time PCR and Western blot, respectively. SNPs (i.e.: -744delA, and -395A/G) were investigated using allele-specific PCR. Expression of pluripotency markers (i.e.: Nanog, and Oct-4) and telomere length measurement were assessed using Real-Time PCR. RESULTS: Real-Time PCR analyses demonstrated a significant down-regulation of Klotho ( 83%; p=0.005) in patients with Preeclampsia versus Controls. Results of Western Blot agreed with Real-Time PCR ones. Polymorphism analysis results suggest that -744delA allele is associated with 3-fold increased risk for preeclampsia. Real-Time PCR investigation revealed a significant down-regulation of pluripotency markers in pathological group. CONCLUSIONS: Klotho expression is decreased in preeclamptic pregnancies. Further data are required to confirm the role of this protein in pathophysiology of preeclampsia and the possible link to long term outcomes.