ROLE OF REACTIVE OXYGEN SPECIES AND APOPTOTIC GENES IN BAD OBSTETRIC HISTORY

Abstract

Bad Obstetric History (BOH), which refers to a range of outcomes during pregnancy like miscarriages, stillbirths, and preterm births is still not fully understood when it comes to the molecular mechanisms involved, despite advancements in obstetric care. This overview addresses the functions of apoptotic genes and Reactive Oxygen Species (ROS) in the pathogenesis of BOH. ROS plays a major role in cellular processes. However, when there is a production of ROS due to stress, it can lead to damage and dysfunction at the cellular level. In cases of BOH, increased levels of ROS have been linked to issues with development problems at the maternal interface and damage to fetal tissue. Apoptosis is a regulated form of cell death that plays a role in maintaining tissue balance. When apoptosis pathways are disrupted or imbalanced, it leads to increased or decreased cell death. Both scenarios can negatively impact pregnancy outcomes. The expression and activity of genes like members of the Bcl 2 family, p53, and caspases have been associated with pregnancy complications such as recurrent miscarriages and stillbirths. This summary examines research findings on how ROS and apoptotic genes interact with each other within the context of BOH. This review brings attention to the targets that could be targeted for treatments to reduce oxidative stress and re-establish the balance in pregnancies that are affected. Moreover, this summary emphasizes the importance of conducting studies to understand the network of cellular processes involved in BOH. Ultimately, these efforts will lead to improved therapeutic approaches to care.