Racial Differences: Nitric Oxide(NO) and Endothelin-1(ET-1) in Preeclampsia (PreE)

Elucidating the Role of Nitric Oxide and Endothelin-1 Activation in Endothelial Cells Co-cultured With Placental Explants From African-american and Caucasian High Risk Pregnancies

The goal of this study is to examine the activation of markers of endothelial and cardiovascular dysfunctions, from women with high-risk pregnancies. Information from this study will hopefully provide enough information to determine a link between race, the advent of high risk pregnancies and cardiovascular markers. With this information it might be possible to intervene with approved pharmacological treatments.

Inclusion Criteria:

• African-american or Caucasian
• Pregnant
• Between ages of 18 - 40 years of age

Exclusion Criteria:

• Presence of a disease or condition which is not preeclampsia
• Drug or alcohol abuse during pregnancy
• Obesity