The loss of functionality of aquaporin 9 adversely affects the survival of trophoblast cells.

ANUD, CAROLINA; DAMIANO, ALICIA E; DI PAOLA, MAURICIO; REPPETTI, JULIETA; MEDINA, YOLLYSETH; DOROSSHNKO, BRIAN

Rosario

Congreso; Reunión Anual de la Sociedad Argentina de Fisiología; 2019

SAFIS

Introduction: Trophoblast apoptosis is a physiological process during placentation and increases progressively throughout gestation. It is notably exaggerated in pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia. We have previously reported that aquaporin 9 (AQP9) protein expression increased in preeclamptic placentas buy it was not functional. Recently, we demonstrated that the exacerbated oxidative and nitrative stress may induce the nitration of AQP9 resulting in a non-functional protein. In addition to water, AQP9 can permeate small uncharged solutes such as lactate. Lactate can be used as an energy substrate to prevent cell death. Objective: Our aim was to explore the role of AQP9 in the survival of trophoblast cells. Methodology: This study was approved by the ethics committee of the Hospital Nacional Dr. Prof. A. Posadas. Explants from normal term placentas were cultured in low glucose conditions with or without L-lactate, and in presence and absence of AQP9 inhibitors (0.3 mM HgCl2, a general blocker of AQPs, and 0.5mM Phloretin, to block AQP9). Bax/Bcl-2 protein expression ratio by Western blot, cell viability by MTT assay and cytotoxicity by LDH release were assessed.Results: In explants cultured in low glucose medium, MTT decreased and Bax/Bcl-2 ratio increased compared to controls, showing that cells were dying (n=5, p