Grant: Operating Grant

Preeclampsia is a complex pathology diagnosed during the second part of the pregnancy. This disorder is characterized by hypertension (high blood pressure), proteinuria (high protein level in urine). This disorder occurs in 3 to 8% of all pregnancies. The only cure for preeclampsia is premature delivery, and this disorder is a leading cause of maternal and neonatal deaths. There are many evidences to support that oxidative stress plays an important role in preeclampsia. An oxidative stress is characterized by an excessive production of reactive oxygen derivatives that various antioxidant systems cannot eliminate, therefore leading to cell and tissue injuries. Some encouraging studies indicated that treatments with antioxidant supplements like vitamin E and C could be beneficial in the prevention of preeclampsia. In this research project, we will determine the role and the importance of lipid oxidation in preeclampsia. In conclusion, this research project will improve our knowledge of the disease and determine the potential role of oxidized lipids as biochemical markers for the diagnosis of preeclampsia. This study will also help us to design new antioxidant therapies.