Oxidative stress in pregnancy and fertility pathologies

Cell Biol Toxicol. 2014 Oct;30(5):301-12. doi: 10.1007/s10565-014-9285-2. Epub 2014 Jul 17.

Abstract

Oxidative stress designates the state of imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and antioxidant levels. In a healthy placenta, there is an increase in ROS production, due to formation of new tissues and inherent metabolism, but this is balanced by higher levels of antioxidants. However, this balance is lost in some situations, with a consequent increase in oxidative stress levels. Oxidative stress has been implicated in several placental disorders and pregnancy pathologies. The present review intends to summarize what is known about the relationship between oxidative stress and well-known pregnancy disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antioxidants / metabolism
  • Female
  • Fertility / physiology*
  • Humans
  • Oxidative Stress / physiology*
  • Placenta / metabolism
  • Placenta / pathology*
  • Pregnancy
  • Reactive Oxygen Species / metabolism

Substances

  • Antioxidants
  • Reactive Oxygen Species