Longitudinal assessment of maternal-fetal Doppler parameters and maternal plasma level of matrix metalloproteinases 2 and 9.

Objective: To assess the behavior as well as the comparison between maternal circulating level of biochemical markers (matrix metalloproteinases - MMP-9 and MMP-2) and maternal-fetal Doppler parameters in all three trimesters of pregnancy.

Methods: We performed a prospective longitudinal study with 33 healthy pregnant women in three periods of pregnancy: A1 (12w0-14w6d), A2 (22w0d-24w6d) and A3 (34w0d and 36w6d). The following maternal Doppler parameters were assessed: mean pulsatility index (PI) uterine artery, resistance index (RI) umbilical artery and RI middle cerebral artery.

Assessment of nitrite oxide and maternal-fetal Doppler parameters during pregnancy.

Objective: The objective was to evaluate and compare the whole blood nitrite concentration in the three trimesters of pregnancy. Additionally, we investigate whether there is any relation between nitrite concentrations and Doppler ultrasound analysis of some maternal and fetal vessels.

Methods: Thirty-three healthy pregnant women were examined at the first (11-14 weeks), second (20-24 weeks) and third trimester (34-36 weeks) of pregnancy.