Expression of Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 potassium channels in human umbilical veins from normal, diabetic and hypertensive pregnancies

Background/Aim. A substantial line of evidence indicates that Kv4.2 and Kv4.3 channels are the major components rapid transient-outward potassium currents (A-type cur-rents). It is speculated those may be involved in maintenance membrane potential, as well regulation propagation frequency action potentials. However, very little known about presence function A-type human vascular smooth muscles such umbilical vein (HUV). Bearing mind its crucial role proper fetal oxygenation, aim study was to determine whether present HUV muscle investigate potential alterations their expression during maternal pathological conditions gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). Methods. Healthy, diabetic, hypertensive pregnancies were subjects this investigation. Each group consisted 6 samples obtained from normal pregnancies, with GDM, PIH. After pharmacology analysis, immunohistochemistry (IH) Western blot performed. Results. IH revealed similar patterns both, subunits all groups patients. Results by agreement staining. The not significantly different between groups. Conclusion. Collective-ly, first demonstrated preservation GDM PIH pregnancies. These most likely relevant for maternal-fetus blood flow hence development. In addition, they represent sensors detecting hemodynamic and/or metabolic changes local environment.