A comparative analysis of selected parameters of vascular angiogenesis in placentas from dizygotic twin pregnancies

Abstract

Introduction: Most of preIntroduction: Most pregnancies after assisted reproduction techniques are dizygotic twin gestations. There is a close relationship between the development and functioning of the placenta and the growth of both fetuses in dizygotic twin pregnancies. Angiogenesis is the process of creating new capillaries. Objectives: The aim of the study was to compare the expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOs) between placentas of dizygotic twins, taking into account their birth weight. Materials and Methods: The study included 35 women in dizygotic twin pregnancies, resolved after 30 completed weeks of gestation by a caesarean section. The patients were divided into two groups: twins whose weight did not differ by more than 20% (group 1) and twins whose weight differed by more than 20% (group 2). Twins with higher and lower birth weight were classified as A and B, respectively. A comparative analysis of the placentas of twins A and B with regard to the selected parameters of angiogenesis, i.e. VEGF and eNOs, was performed. Results: A strong expression of VEGF was observed in twins with lower birth weight in group 1, as well as a strong expression of eNOs in twins with higher weight in group 2, and with lower weight in group 1. Conclusions: Neovascularization is more expressed in the placentas of twins with lower birth weight (in the group with no significant differences in weight), possibly reflecting the existence of efficient mechanisms of compensation. High expression of e-NOS may indicate an increased risk of ischemia with intact endothelium.