Differential gene expression profiling in HELLP syndrome placentas

The aim of this study was to identify differentially expressed genes by suppression subtractive hybridization (SSH) in HELLP placentas. Two cDNA libraries were constructed; HSI (HELLP subtracted induced or upregulated) and HSS (HELLP subtracted suppressed or downregulated). Two hundred eighty-eight cDNA clones were sequenced; 37 were matched to GenBank entries and included genes in cell communication and organization, cellular processes, genetic information processing, and metabolic processes. A subgroup of 11 genes of interest was further selected for real-time quantitative polymerase chain reaction confirmation. Results showed no differences in expression of chosen upregulated genes between HELLP and non-HELLP placentas; 6 HELLP downregulated genes were significantly suppressed. Two genes related to production of secreted proteins, CTHRC1 and SERPINE2. SERPINE2 (PAI-1) is a soluble protease inhibitor and is a potential biomarker by Western blot analysis, and the protein is significantly decreased in HELLP placentas. SERPINE2 might be tested clinically in patients for early diagnosis of HELLP syndrome.