Expression and Significance of Galectin-1 and Galectin-3 in the Serum and Placental Tissues of Patients with Intrahepatic  Cholestasis of Pregnancy

Li-Hua  Qian; Xiang  Kong; Liu-Lin  Zhou

doi:10.18502/ijph.v52i8.13403

Li-Hua Qian Clinical Medical College of Yangzhou University, No. 136 Middle Jiangyang Road, Hanjiang District, Yangzhou 225000, Chi-na
Xiang Kong Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Clinical Medical College, Yangzhou University, Yangzhou, Jiangsu, China
Liu-Lin Zhou Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taixing People's Hospital, No. 1 Changzheng Road, Taixing City, Taizhou 225400, China

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/ijph.v52i8.13403

Keywords: Intrahepatic cholestasis; Pregnancy; Galectin-1; Galectin-3

Abstract

Background: Intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is a pregnancy-specific liver disease, usually occurring in the third trimester of pregnancy. Its typical clinical manifestations are itching and elevated serum total bile acid levels, which are more harmful to the fetus, and can lead to a variety of adverse pregnancy outcomes. This paper discusses the expressions of galectin -1 and 3 in the serum and placenta of ICP patients and their relationship with the effect of the incidence of ICP.

Methods: Galectin-1 and 3 in serum and placenta were detected in 22 pregnant women with ICP and 20 healthy pregnant women admitted to the obstetrics Department of Northern Jiangsu People's Hospital from May 2021 to February 2022.

Results: Serum levels of galectin-1 and galectin-3 in ICP pregnant women were significantly higher than those in controls, with significant differences (P<0.05). Placental galectin-1 and 3 were higher in normal pregnant women, and there were statistical differences between groups (P<0.05).

Conclusion: In ICP, the maternal serum and placental galectin-1 and 3 levels were significantly increased, both of which may play an important role in the development of ICP, which may be the initiation factor of ICP pathophysiology, a marker of ICP prediction, and a target of ICP prevention strategies.