Raised Serum Gravidin Levels are Associated with Pregnancy-Induced Hypertension

ABSTRACT

It has recently been reported that synthesis of the vasodilatory prostaglandin, prostacyclin, is decreased in human pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). Prostaglandin production is regulated mainly by the enzyme phospholipase A₂. We report here that serum levels of a potent phospholipase A₂ inhibitor (gravidin) were elevated during early pregnancy in women who later developed PIH compared with those who remained normotensive throughout pregnancy. It is suggested that high circulating levels of this potent phospholipase inhibitor may account for the reported decrease in prostacyclin synthesis and contribute to the development of pregnancy-induced hypertension.