IGF-2 and IGFBP-3 in Pregnancies Complicated by PIH and IUGR

Objectives: Around 15% of pregnant women develop pregnancy associated complications that increase the risk of maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. The most common pregnancy complications are: pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH) and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Insulin-like growth factors (IGFs) were proven to play an essential role in placenta growth, fetus development and modifications of their metabolism. The aim of this study was to compare the concentration of IGF-2 and IGF binding protein-3 (IGFBP-3) in pregnancies complicated by PIH, IUGR and pregnacies complicated by both PIH and IUGR. Methods: 84 pairs of pregnant women and their newborns were divided into four cohorts: eutrophic newborns from pregnancies complicated by PIH, newborns who met the criteria for IUGR, newborns from pregnancies complicated by both PIH and IUGR and control group. IGF-2 and IGFBP-3 serum levels in umbilical cord blood were measured in each group by immunoenzymatic method. The obtain date were analised statistically using STATISCTICA statistical package. Results: IGF-2 serum levels per body surface area were found to be higher in neonates with IUGR (in both subgroups of pregnancies: complicated and uncomplicated by PIH). On the other hand, no differences in IGFBP-3 concentration between cohorts was found. Conclusion: Futher studies are essential to investigate whether changes in growth hormone secretion are the cause or the reasult of the ongoing adaptation to adverse conditions of intrauterine environment.