Markers of endothelial cell dysfunction are increased in human omental adipose tissue from women with pre-existing maternal obesity and gestational diabetes

Abstract

Objective To determine the effect of maternal obesity and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) on the expression and release of genes involved in endothelial cell dysfunction in human placenta and omental adipose tissue. Materials/Methods Human placenta and omental adipose tissue were obtained from non-obese and obese normal glucose tolerant (NGT) women and women with GDM at the time of Caesarean section. Quantitative RT-PCR was performed to determine the level of expression. Tissue explants were performed to determine the release of proteins of interest. Results There was no effect of pre-existing maternal obesity or GDM on placental gene expression or secretion of members of the VEGF family..