Gynäkologie und Geburtshilfe
Offener Zugang

Abstrakt

Involvement of the Bufodienolides in the Pathogenesis and Potential Therapy of Preeclampsia, the Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome and Traumatic Brain Injury

Qingzheng Chen, Kamran Abbas, Muppala Raju and Jules B. Puschett

The purpose of this review is to provide detailed information on the evidence for marinobufagenin (MBG) as a predictive and causative factor in preeclampsia(PE), the acute respiratory distress syndrome(ARDS) and traumatic brain injury (TBI). In addition, evidence is provided that resibufogenin (RBG),the antagonist of MBG is effective in the treatment of all three diseases. Results from experiments conducted on animal models and in human subjects indicate that patients with PE, ARDS and TBI have increased urinary and serum MBG levels. In PE patients, MBG is elevated in the early stages of pregnancy. In ARDS, MBG was elevated in serum samples of hyperoxic rats. MBG levels were also elevated in concussed athletes and in rat studies in which TBI was induced. In the animal models, all three disease processes were prevented/treated by the administration of RBG. Human trials of MBG as a predictor of PE, ARDS and TBI are underway as are studies of RBG as a therapy with respect to its usefulness and safety. Early detection of PE will significantly reduce its effects on pregnancy. ARDS, which has a high mortality rate, would benefit from studies on employing RBG. TBI patients can be diagnosed much more quickly than currently possible utilizing MBG as an early indicator. Furthermore, RBG may serve as a therapy.