Tumor necrosis factor alpha expression is increased in maternal microvascular endothelial cells in preeclampsia

Objective: The aim of this study was to explore the expression and effects of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF alpha) in maternal endothelial cells in preeclampsia (PE). Methods: Expression levels in primary microvascular endothelial cells (MVEC) isolated from patients with severe preeclampsia (PE) and normal pregnancies were determined by RT-qPCR with or without treatment of TNF alpha and inhibitors for downstream signaling. Results: PE MVEC exhibited increased basal TNF alpha expression. TNF alpha treatment increased TNF alpha, VCAM, and endocan expression in MVEC. Conclusion: TNF alpha expression is increased in PE MVEC and the treatment of these cells with exogenous TNF alpha modifies their gene expression.