DefinePK

Abstract

The research examined alterations in DNA methylation patterns of leukocytes among women who experienced early pregnancy loss and displayed a significant pro-inflammatory immune reaction. The findings suggested that an intensified pro-inflammatory response during the initial phases of pregnancy, when genital infections are absent and the corrective effects of protease inhibitors are inadequate, could lead to detrimental conditions for both the progression of early pregnancy and the likelihood of miscarriages. Furthermore, adverse pregnancy outcomes may be associated with changes in global DNA methylation, manifested by a significant increase in the activity of DNA methyltransferase 1 and the index of 5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine in leukocytes both before pregnancy and at 6 and 12 weeks of gestation. Thus, the analysis of pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-1β), the anti-inflammatory cytokine IL-10, matrix metalloproteinase-9 and its inhibitor MMP-1 in blood samples, coupled with the assessment of DNA methyltransferase 1 activity and the levels of 5-methyl-2'-deoxycytidine in leukocytes, could serve as potential biomarkers for adverse outcomes in early pregnancy.