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Genetic basis of preterm birth
1Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Boston Medical Center, Boston University School of Medicine, Boston, MA, USA. Mirjana.Nesin@bmc.org
Frontiers in Bioscience : a Journal and Virtual Library
|November 28, 2006
Summary
Genetic predisposition may contribute to preterm birth (PTB). Research explores single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes, potentially leading to personalized diagnostics and therapies for PTB.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Reproductive Medicine
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Epidemiologic data indicate that a history of preterm birth (PTB) and racial/ethnic disparities are associated with PTB incidence.
- PTB may stem from genetic predisposition, environmental factors, or gene-environment interactions.
- Infection and inflammation are linked to increased PTB risk, involving immunomodulatory molecules from polymorphic genes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential role of genetic variations, specifically single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), in the occurrence of preterm birth (PTB).
- To explore the correlation between specific gene polymorphisms and PTB risk.
- To lay the groundwork for developing targeted diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for PTB based on genetic profiles.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiologic data linking personal/family history and racial/ethnic factors to PTB.
- Examination of the role of infection, inflammation, and immunomodulatory molecules in PTB.
- Focus on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in genes associated with PTB.
Main Results:
- Epidemiologic data suggest genetic predisposition and environmental influences contribute to PTB.
- Gene-environment interactions are a potential factor in PTB development.
- SNPs in certain genes have been implicated in PTB, affecting gene product expression.
Conclusions:
- Genetic factors, particularly SNPs, may play a significant role in preterm birth (PTB).
- Understanding these genetic links could enable personalized medicine approaches for PTB prevention and treatment.
- Further research confirming SNP-PTB correlations is needed for clinical application.
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