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  • Title: Simultaneously reduced gene expression of cortisol-activating and cortisol-inactivating enzymes in placentas of small-for-gestational-age neonates.
    Author: Struwe E, Berzl GM, Schild RL, Beckmann MW, Dörr HG, Rascher W, Dötsch J.
    Journal: Am J Obstet Gynecol; 2007 Jul; 197(1):43.e1-6. PubMed ID: 17618751.
    Abstract:
    OBJECTIVE: The enzyme 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 (11beta-HSD2) converts cortisol into cortisone. Reduced placental activity of 11beta-HSD2 in small-for-gestational-age (SGA) neonates results in fetal cortisol excess. In the present study, we examined the yet unknown gene expression of 11beta-HSD1, which primarily synthesizes cortisol in SGA placenta. STUDY DESIGN: In placentas taken from 24 women with normal-weight newborns and 16 women with SGA neonates, expression of 11beta-HSD1 and 11beta-HSD2 messenger ribonucleic acid (mRNA) was determined using reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction. RESULTS: Placental mRNA expression of 11beta-HSD1 and 11beta-HSD2 was significantly reduced in the SGA group (P = .006 and P < .0001). Both enzymes showed a significant correlation to birthweight SD score and placental weight. Also, levels of both enzymes were significantly correlated. CONCLUSION: In placental tissue of SGA neonates 11beta-HSD2 and 11beta-HSD1 gene expression is reduced. Adapted levels of 11beta-HSD1 might result in a counterregulatory mechanism limiting transplacental passage of elevated cortisol levels.
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