Unravelling the complex interplay between zinc, iron and their synergistic effect on LCPUFA metabolism in preeclampsia

Abstract

Preeclampsia is a hypertensive disorder of pregnancy. It is a leading cause of maternal mortality and morbidity. Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) are critical for normal placental and fetal development. Biosynthesis of these LCPUFAs is regulated by Δ5 and Δ6 desaturase enzymes, which require zinc and iron as cofactors. Both zinc and iron are important micronutrients which play pivotal role during pregnancy and their deficiency during pregnancy is linked with preeclampsia. Zinc and iron deficiency is common in pregnancy and often coexists. Zinc and iron interact in complex ways, influencing the bioavailability of each other. On the other hand, zinc is required for intestinal uptake and transport of iron. The current article summarizes studies examining the role of zinc, iron and LCPUFAs in preeclampsia. It also gives a mechanistic insight through which zinc and iron synergistically influence LCPUFA biosynthesis in pregnancy complicated with preeclampsia.