The role of soluble E-selectin in HIV associated preeclampsia

Objective: To determine the serum concentration of soluble E-selectin (sE-selectin) in HIV associated preeclampsia. Study Design: The study population (n = 72) consisted of normotensive pregnant (n = 36) and preeclamptic (n = 36) women stratified by HIV status (negative vs. positive). Serum concentrations of sE-selectin were quantified using the MilliPlex multiplex immunoassay method. Statistical analyses were conducted using GraphPad Prism software. Results: When stratified by pregnancy type and HIV status, serum sE-selectin levels were elevated in the preeclamptic HIV-negative group compared to the normotensive HIV-negative group (p = 0.0070**). Gestational age, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure and baby weight were statistically different across the study groups (p < 0.0001). Conclusion: This study demonstrates an elevation of sE-selectin in preeclamptic HIV-negative compared to the normotensive HIV-negative group. However, when stratified by HIV status, there was no significant difference observed in preeclamptic HIV-positive and normotensive HIV-positive groups. The findings of this small-scale study suggest that sE-selectin may be used as a biomarker or an early identifier of preeclampsia. Studies with large numbers should be considered to confirm our findings. (C) 2020 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Automated summary

This study found that serum sE-selectin levels were significantly elevated in HIV-negative women with preeclampsia compared to those with normal pregnancies. There were statistical differences in gestational age, blood pressure, and baby weight across the study groups.