Hamid Karami, Amin Farzaneh Hesari, Parvin Farzanegi,
Volume 16, Issue 2 (3-2022)
Abstract
Background and objectives: Hypertension is associated with vascular remodeling, which is supported by the protein disulfide isomerase A1 (PDIA1). Exercise training has beneficial effects on vascular function in subjects with hypertension. Alpha lipoic acid (ALA) is a powerful biological antioxidant. However, the role of exercise training and ALA on PDIA1 are not well understood. The aim of the present study was to investigate effects of training with different intensities and ALA supplementation on PDIA1 expression in cardiomyocytes of hypertensive rats.
Methods: In this experimental study, 35 male Wistar rats (age: eight weeks, weight: 190-220 g) were randomly divided into seven groups: control, hypertensive, hypertensive+ALA, hypertensive+high intensity interval training (HIIT), hypertensive+moderate-intensity training (MIT), hypertensive+HIIT+ALA, and hypertensive+MIT+ALA. Hypertension was induced by three weeks of L-NAME administration (40 mg/kg/day). The HIIT and MIT protocols was performed five days a week for six weeks. The HIIT protocol consisted of 10 bouts of four minute-running at 80–85% of Vmax, and the MIT protocol consisted of 13 bouts of four minute-running at 55–60% of Vmax. In the supplementation groups, 20 mg/kg of ALA was administered orally once a day. Immunohistochemistry staining was used to study protein expression.
Results: Induction of hypertension significantly decreased PDIA1 expression compared to the control group (p=0.001). Moreover, PDIA1 expression increased significantly in the hypertensive+ALA (p=0.023), HIIT (p=0.001), MIT (p=0.007), MIT+ hypertensive+ALA (p=0.0001) and HIIT+ hypertensive+ALA (p=0.0001) group compared to the control group.
Conclusion: Hypertension is associated with decreased cardiac PDIA1 level, and both HIIT and MIT along with ALA supplementation are effective in increasing cardiac PDIA1 expression in hypertension.
Adedeji Okikiade , Chidinma Kanu , Oluwadamilare Iyapo , Ololade Omitogun,
Volume 19, Issue 3 (7-2025)
Abstract
Background: Pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH) is a multi-system disorder affecting 6-8% of pregnancies in the U.S. and contributing significantly to maternal mortality, accounting for 16% in developed countries. It progresses from preeclampsia to eclampsia, leading to multi-organ damage through mechanisms such as oxidative stress, placental ischemia, and endothelial dysfunction. While the exact pathogenesis remains unclear, genetic, immunologic, and environmental factors are implicated. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecology (ACOG) recommends initiating treatment when diastolic blood pressure exceeds 105-110 mmHg.
Methods: This narrative review examines existing literature on PIH, including epidemiological data, pathophysiological mechanisms, clinical management guidelines, and associated complications such as abnormal placentation, oxidative stress, and endothelial dysfunction.
Results: This study demonstrates that hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) significantly impact maternal and fetal health, particularly in developing countries with limited healthcare access. Early detection and continuous monitoring play a key role in reducing complications. Additionally, HDP is associated with increased long-term cardiovascular and metabolic risks, highlighting the importance of postpartum follow-up.
Conclusion: HDP poses a serious threat to maternal and fetal health, with potential long-term consequences. Effective management requires early diagnosis, close monitoring, and postpartum follow-up. Global implementation of risk assessment and targeted care strategies can help reduce the burden of this condition. Strengthening healthcare systems and increasing awareness among healthcare providers and patients are essential steps toward improving outcomes.
