摘要：Abstract Background Long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) are biologically active fatty acids which regulate placental angiogenesis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Abnormalities in these aspects have been associated with preeclampsia (PE). Further, placenta has a heterogeneous structure with differential vascularization across different regions. We therefore hypothesize that the distribution of fatty acids in various regions of the placenta is altered in {PE} leading to poor fetal outcome. Methods In this cross-sectional study we recruited 69 normotensive control (NC) and 44 women with PE. {PE} women were further classified as those delivered preterm (PTPE, n = 24) and at term (TPE, n = 20). Fatty acid levels were analyzed from placental samples from four different regions (CF—central fetal, PF—peripheral fetal, CM—central maternal and PM—peripheral maternal). Results In the {NC} placenta, {AA} levels were lower (p < 0.05) in {CM} as compared with {CF} region. However, such differences were not seen in the {TPE} and PTPE. In contrast, the {DHA} levels varied between regions only in the {PTPE} placenta. Between groups, {DHA} levels were lower (p < 0.05 for both) in the {CM} and {CF} regions of the {PTPE} as compared with NC. The levels of {DHA} in {TPE} placenta were similar to NC. {AA} levels were lower (p < 0.05 for both) in {CF} region of {TPE} and {PF} region of {PTPE} placenta than NC. Conclusions There is differential pattern of {LCPUFA} distribution across various regions of the NC, {TPE} and {PTPE} placenta. This may have implications for placental growth and development as well as transfer of {LCPUFA} to the fetus.
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