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From molecules to medicine: a future cure for preeclampsia?
Mark K Santillan1, Donna A Santillan, Curt D Sigmund
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics, University of Iowa Roy J. and Lucille A. Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City, Iowa, USA. mark-santillan@uiowa.edu
Drug News & Perspectives
|January 15, 2010
Summary
Preeclampsia (PreE) impacts 5-7% of US pregnancies, causing significant maternal and fetal complications. This review explores the unknown molecular causes of PreE, including genetic and environmental factors.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Maternal-Fetal Medicine
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Preeclampsia (PreE) affects 5-7% of pregnancies in the US, contributing to 15% of maternal-fetal morbidity and mortality.
- PreE presents with severe complications like fetal growth restriction, fetal death, maternal seizures, stroke, and death, impacting both mother and fetus.
- The precise molecular pathogenesis of PreE remains largely unknown, hindering effective treatment strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the clinical presentation and disease phenotype of preeclampsia.
- To present evidence on the molecular pathways implicated in PreE pathogenesis.
- To discuss therapeutic investigations targeting these pathways.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
- It examines clinical data and molecular investigations.
- Focuses on proposed etiological pathways and therapeutic targets.
Main Results:
- Dysfunctional angiogenesis, inappropriate placentation, oxidative stress, and altered immunology are implicated in PreE.
- Genetic factors play a crucial role in the etiology of PreE across multiple pathways.
- Various molecular pathways are involved, with ongoing therapeutic investigations.
Conclusions:
- Understanding the molecular basis of PreE is critical for improving maternal and fetal outcomes.
- Genetic and molecular factors are key to unraveling PreE pathogenesis.
- Targeting identified pathways offers potential therapeutic avenues for PreE.
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