Neurokinin B peptide serum levels are higher in normotensive pregnant women than in preeclamptic pregnant women

Objectives The purpose of this study was to examine neurokinin B levels in serum from preeclamptic and normotensive and to investigate the role of neurokinin B in preeclampsia. Study design Peripheral and uterine venous blood neurokinin B levels were measured in 14 normotensive and 8 preeclamptic pregnant women by radioimmunoassay. Results Neurokinin B levels in normotensive women were 4.91 ± 2.67 nmol/L in peripheral and 5.59 ± 2.06 nmol/L in uterine blood. In pregnant women with preeclampsia, neurokinin B levels were 2.79 ± 1.68 nmol/L and 3.20 ± 1.55 nmol/L, respectively. Neurokinin B levels were significantly higher in normotensive women (P = .032 in peripheral and P = .006 in uterine blood). Conclusions Neurokinin B serum levels were higher in normotensive women. Higher neurokinin B concentrations in normotensive pregnant women may be due to the advanced gestational age and/or the result of a negative interaction of other vasoactive substances. The role of neurokinin B in preeclampsia remains to be determined.