Objectives: Recent studies suggest the essential role of different cytokines realised from adipose tissue in pathogenesis of gestational diabetes. The aim of the study was evaluation of adiponectin (diabetes development protective factor) and TNFalpha (one of the most important insulin resistance mediator) genes expression in maternal visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue as well as placental tissue.
Material and methods: The study group consists of patients with gestational diabetes, healthy pregnant glucose tolerant women represented the control group. Tissue samples--placental tissue, visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue--were obtained from patients who were undergoing ceasarean section. RT-PCR technique was performed for evaluation of adoponectin and TNF alpha genes expression.
Results: Our study showed decreased adiponectin gene expression and increased TNFalpha gene expression in visceral adipose tissue in pregnant women with gestational diabetes. An expression of adiponectin gene in diabetic placental tissue was not observed. We also noticed slight increase of TNF alpha gene expressionin placenta of diabetic cases.
Conclusions: Decreased adiponectin and increased TNFalpha genes expression in adipose tissue of pregnant women with gestational diabetes seems to play a significant role in insulin resistance appearance and can lead to development of diabetes in pregnancy.