Biochemical Changes in Lipid Profile and Antioxidant Status in Pregnancy

Abstract

Pregnancy represents a multifaceted physiological phenomenon influenced by a variety of interrelated factors. The causes of abortion or pregnancy disruption are diverse, encompassing genetic, hormonal, environmental, and immunological elements. A comprehensive understanding of the factors contributing to pregnancy loss is crucial for enhancing both maternal and fetal health outcomes. The progression of fetal development during pregnancy, along with the implications of childbirth, is closely associated with the maternal lipid profile and antioxidant levels. This investigation was prompted by an observed increase in pregnancy loss (abortion), pregnancy-induced hypertension, preeclampsia, and gestational diabetes, particularly among women in their second and third trimesters. A total of 50 women were recruited from two Primary Healthcare facilities in Akure, comprising 25 pregnant women (subjects) with normal pregnancies and 25 non-pregnant women of reproductive age (controls). The lipid profile (including Low-Density Lipoprotein-LDL, High-Density Lipoprotein-HDL, Total Cholesterol-TC, and Triacylglycerol-TAG), antioxidant status (measured by Glutathione Peroxidase activity-GPx), and lipid peroxidation (assessed through Malondialdehyde-MDA) were evaluated using analytical test kits on blood samples collected from participants. The findings revealed a statistically significant increase (p < 0.05) in lipid parameters—LDL, TAG, TC, and HDL—in the subjects compared to the control group. Additionally, GPx activity was significantly elevated (p < 0.05) in the subjects relative to the controls. MDA levels were also significantly higher in the subjects than in the control group. Furthermore, fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels were significantly (p < 0.05) elevated in the non-pregnant control group compared to the pregnant group. This study indicates the necessity of assessing the lipid profile and antioxidant levels in pregnant women to enhance pregnancy outcomes and decrease the rates of pregnancy loss.

Key words: - Lipid profile, Pregnancy, Antioxidant, Peroxidation, miscarriage, abortion