Comparative immunological effect of anticoagulant and antioxidant therapy in the prevention of abortion in mice.

PROBLEM

Considering the potential adverse effects of anticoagulation in abortion treatment, we investigate whether antioxidants might exert the same immunoprotection. Although the fertility properties of Vitamin E have been associated with its antioxidant capacity, its effect on cytokine balance during pregnancy is still unknown.

METHOD OF STUDY

Pregnant females from CBA/J × DBA/2 abortion model were orally supplemented with Vitamin E or inoculated intraperitoneally with enoxaparin. Foeto-placental units were scored at 14.5 days of pregnancy, and abortion rate was calculated. Cytokine placental levels were determined by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

RESULTS

Vitamin E (15 mg/day) has been able to decrease abortion rate and to increase IL-6 placental levels, while both treatments increased vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) placental levels.

CONCLUSION

Vitamin E and enoxaparin are able not only to prevent foetal wastage but also to balance IL-6 and VEGF placental levels, presenting a new potential therapeutic alternative for patients with recurrent abortion not associated with thrombophilias.