Metabolomic Insights: LC-MS Profiling of Human Placental Tissue from SSRI-Treated Pregnancies
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Introduction
Antenatal depression, a common pregnancy complication, poses significant risks if untreated. Consequently, pregnant mothers are prescribed selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs).
Methods
We performed a comprehensive determination of the placental metabolome by nontargeted liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) metabolomics approach to determine whether SSRIs alter placental metabolic functions. A total of 48 placental samples from individuals using SSRI medication throughout the pregnancy (n = 24) and non-depressive controls without antidepressant medication (n = 24) were included.
Results
We found significant alterations in glutathione, amino acid, and lipid metabolism, potentially indicating a response to changes in placental redox homeostasis and energy metabolism. Furthermore, four of the altered metabolites were positively associated with the 5-minute Apgar score in SSRI-treated pregnancies, indicating that higher metabolite levels may correlate with better birth outcomes.
Discussion
Given the limited research on placental metabolomics, our exploratory study provides new insights into SSRI-induced changes in the placenta.
