IMPACT OF HSA_CIRC_0003314 ON TROPHOBLAST FUNCTION AND IMPLICATIONS FOR MATERNAL FITNESS IN PRE-ECLAMPSIA

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the role of hsa_circ_0003314 in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia (PE) and its implications for maternal fitness, focusing on the impact of circRNA on trophoblast cellular functions crucial for pregnancy health. Methods: Circ_0003314 levels were measured in placental tissues from PE patients and healthy controls using quantitative RT-PCR. The stability of circ_0003314 was tested with RNase R and actinomycin D assays. Interaction between circ_0003314 and its molecular targets was examined via dual-luciferase reporter assays. Key trophoblast functions such as migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) were assessed following the silencing or overexpression of circ_0003314. Results: Elevated levels of circ_0003314 were found in the placental tissues of PE patients. Silencing circ_0003314 in trophoblasts enhanced migratory and invasive capabilities and facilitated EMT, which are vital for placental development and maternal cardiovascular adaptation to pregnancy. Conversely, overexpression of circ_0003314 impaired these processes. The study further revealed that circ_0003314 exerts its effects through the miR-487a-3p/PTEN axis, with the modulation of this pathway altering trophoblast behavior. Conclusion: The upregulation of hsa_circ_0003314 in pre-eclampsia may contribute to the condition by disrupting normal trophoblast functions, including migration and invasion, through the miR-487a-3p/PTEN pathway. These findings suggest that targeting hsa_circ_0003314 could be a potential therapeutic strategy for managing PE, with implications for improving maternal fitness and pregnancy outcomes. This research underscores the importance of maintaining trophoblast function for maternal health in sports and fitness contexts, where physical demands may be particularly challenging during pregnancy.