From molecules to medicine: a future cure for preeclampsia?

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.