Caspase 1, superoxide dismutase (D-mutase) and calretinin expression in the placenta and in the basal decidua in preeclampsia

To determine new data related to the expression of caspase 1, superoxiddismutase and calretinin in the placenta and basal decidua in preeclampsia. Placental and basal decidua samples from 9 preeclamptic and 9 normotensive controls were analyzed using expressions of caspase 1, superoxiddismutase and calretinin assessed by immunohistochemistry. Caspase 1 was expressed in placental syncythium in preeclampsia constantly, while in the control group the expression was weak or absent. In Langhans cells, in fetal sinusoidal capillary endothelia and in Hofbauer cells the expression was equal in both groups. Stronger expression was observed in stromal myofibroblasts in preeclampsia. In preeclampsia, expression of superoxiddismutase in syncythium, in Langhans cells and in decidual cells was weaker. Calretinin was not found in any placental structure. Sporadically, calretinin was expressed in the interstitial extravillous trophoblast cells, in decidual cells and in spiral arterioles in preeclampsia. The obtained morphological data correlating with some clinical and biochemical features contribute to understanding of the molecular background of preeclampsia etiopathogenesis.