Gene expression of iron transporters, markers of vascularization and structural integrity in placenta of mothers with and without anemia

Objective To compare the mRNA expression of placental iron transporters (TfR-1 and FPN), markers of placental vascularization (VEGF and sFLT1) and marker of structural integrity (LMN-A) in term women with and without iron deficiency anemia. Materials and methods A total of 30 pregnant women were enrolled; 15 cases of iron deficiency anemia (Hb 7-10.9 gm/dL) and 15 gestational age matched healthy controls (Hb ≥ 11 gm/dL). Peripheral venous blood was collected for assessment of hemoglobin levels and serum iron profile. Placental tissue was used for assessing the mRNA expression of TfR-1, FPN, VEGF, sFLT-1 and LMN-A via real time PCR. Results Placental expression of TfR-1, VEGF and LMN-A was increased in pregnant women with anemia compared to healthy pregnant controls. Placental expression of sFLT-1 was decreased in pregnant women with anemia compared to healthy pregnant controls. There was no change in the placental expression of FPN. Conclusion The increased expression of TfR-1, VEGF and LMN-A in cases of iron deficiency anemia are most likely to be compensatory in nature to help maintain adequate fetal iron delivery. What does this study adds to the clinical work : Compensatory changes in the placenta aimed at buffering transport of iron to the fetus are seen in pregnant women with anemia compared to healthy pregnant controls.