The Role of Heme Oxygenase in Pregnancy

Heme oxygenase (HO) family catalyzes the conversion of heme into free iron, carbon monoxide and biliverdin. It possesses two well-characterized isoforms: HO-1 and HO-2. Under brain physiological conditions, the expression of HO-2 is constitutive, abundant and ubiquitous, whereas HO-1 mRNA and protein are restricted to small populations of neurons and neuroglia. HO-1 is an inducible enzyme that has been shown to participate as an essential defensive mechanism for neurons exposed to oxidant challenges, being related to antioxidant defenses in certain neuropathological conditions. Considering that neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer’s Disease (AD), Parkinson’s Disease (PD) and Multiple Sclerosis (MS)) and neuropsychiatric disorders (depression, anxiety, Bipolar Disorder (BD) and schizophrenia) are associated with increased inflammatory markers, impaired redox homeostasis and oxidative stress, conditions that may be associated with alterations in HO-levels/activity, the purpose of this review is to present evidence on the possible role of HO-1 in these Central Nervous System (CNS) diseases. In addition, the possible therapeutic potential of targeting brain HO-1 is explored in this review.

Download Full-text

The Role of Statins in the Activation of Heme Oxygenase-1 in Cardiovascular Diseases

Current Drug Targets ◽

10.2174/1389450117666160401123600 ◽

2017 ◽

Vol 18 (6) ◽

pp. 674-686 ◽

Cited By ~ 8

Author(s):

Aleksandra Piechota-Polanczyk ◽

Alicja Jozkowicz

Keyword(s):

Cardiovascular Diseases ◽

Heme Oxygenase ◽

Heme Oxygenase 1

Download Full-text

Importance of Oral Health in Pregnancy: A Mini-symposium

Current Women s Health Reviews ◽

10.2174/1573404815666190107095920 ◽

2019 ◽

Vol 15 (3) ◽

pp. 156-158

Author(s):

Aditi Priyamvara ◽

Amit K. Dey ◽

Antara Bagchi ◽

Raveena Kelkar ◽

Rajaram Sharma

Keyword(s):

Oral Health ◽

Oral Cavity ◽

Tooth Enamel ◽

Relevant Information ◽

The Body ◽

Systemic Impact ◽

Low Birth Weight Babies ◽

Adverse Pregnancy ◽

In Pregnancy

Background: It is known that hormonal imbalances during pregnancy make women more susceptible to dental problems. High levels of progesterone and estrogen during pregnancy, lead to an increased inflammatory response to dental plaque thus causing predisposing to gum diseases such as gingivitis. If untreated, gingivitis leads to chronic periodontitis which may manifest systemically in form of cardiovascular, endocrine or even respiratory disorders. Also, hyperacidity in the oral cavity due to gastric reflux and vomiting leads to decreased pH thus damaging the tooth enamel making the oral cavity more prone to tooth decay and tooth loss. Studies also show that periodontal disease can also lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as pre-term and low birth weight babies. Objectives: We sought to understand the role of oral health in pregnancy. Methods: We identified major articles of interest in the field of oral health in pregnancy and drafted a mini-symposium based on relevant information. Conclusion: Regular dental visits and cognizant efforts to sustain a healthy oral environment can help women in the prevention and treatment of dental issues during pregnancy. The paper highlights the common oral manifestations during pregnancy and their local and systemic impact on the body during pregnancy. Furthermore, it also emphasizes the importance of good oral health practices to counteract the oral complications and the significance of oral health awareness in pregnant women.

Download Full-text