Simultaneously reduced gene expression of cortisol-activating and cortisol-inactivating enzymes in placentas of small-for-gestational-age neonates

• Published in: American journal of obstetrics and gynecology 2007-07, Vol.197 (1), p.43.e1-43.e6
• Main Authors: Struwe, Ellen, MD, Berzl, Gabriele M., MD, Schild, Ralf L., MD, Beckmann, Matthias W., MD, Dörr, Helmuth G., MD, Rascher, Wolfgang, MD, Dötsch, Jörg, MD
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: 11-beta-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 - biosynthesis; 11-beta-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 1 - genetics; 11-beta-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 2 - biosynthesis; 11-beta-Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase Type 2 - genetics; 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase; Adult; birthweight; Case-Control Studies; Female; fetal programming; Gene Expression; Gestational Age; Humans; Hydrocortisone - metabolism; Infant, Low Birth Weight - physiology; Infant, Newborn; Infant, Small for Gestational Age - physiology; intrauterine growth restriction; Obstetrics and Gynecology; placenta; Placenta - enzymology; Pregnancy
• ISSN: 0002-9378; 1097-6868
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2007.02.012

Objective The enzyme 11β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11β-HSD2) converts cortisol into cortisone. Reduced placental activity of 11β-HSD2 in small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates results in fetal cortisol excess. In the present study, we examined the yet unknown gene expression of 11β-HSD1, which primarily synthesizes cortisol in SGA placenta. Study Design In placentas taken from 24 women with normal-weight newborns and 16 women with SGA neonates, expression of 11β-HSD1 and 11β-HSD2 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) was determined using reverse transcription–polymerase chain reaction. Results Placental mRNA expression of 11β-HSD1 and 11β-HSD2 was significantly reduced in the SGA group ( P = .006 and P < .0001). Both enzymes showed a significant correlation to birthweight SD score and placental weight. Also, levels of both enzymes were significantly correlated. Conclusion In placental tissue of SGA neonates 11β-HSD2 and 11β-HSD1 gene expression is reduced. Adapted levels of 11β-HSD1 might result in a counterregulatory mechanism limiting transplacental passage of elevated cortisol levels.