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Cell-free nucleic acids as potential markers for preeclampsia
S Hahn1, C Rusterholz, I Hösli
1Laboratory for Prenatal Medicine, Department of Biomedicine, University Hospital, Spitalstrasse 21, CH-4031 Basel, Switzerland.
Placenta
|January 25, 2011
Summary
Early detection of preeclampsia may be possible using cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) and RNA biomarkers in maternal blood. These novel markers show promise for improving prenatal diagnosis and reducing maternal and fetal mortality.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Molecular Diagnostics
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Preeclampsia is a major global cause of maternal and fetal mortality.
- Early diagnosis is crucial for timely intervention and improved outcomes.
- Current diagnostic methods lack widespread applicability and affordability.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the potential of cell-free nucleic acids as early biomarkers for preeclampsia.
- To investigate quantitative changes in cell-free fetal DNA (cffDNA) in maternal plasma.
- To evaluate cell-free RNA of placental origin as a diagnostic marker.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative real-time PCR to measure male-specific cffDNA loci (SRY, DYS 14).
- Analysis of total cell-free DNA and gender-independent epigenetic markers (DNA methylation).
- Measurement of placental-derived cell-free RNA levels.
Main Results:
- Elevated cffDNA levels observed in early-onset preeclampsia, potentially in the first trimester.
- Increased cffDNA may result from placental hypoxia, oxidative stress, and apoptosis.
- Cell-free RNA levels are significantly higher in preeclamptic pregnancies.
Conclusions:
- Cell-free fetal nucleic acids (DNA and RNA) show significant promise as early biomarkers for preeclampsia.
- Gender-independent markers and combined approaches may facilitate routine clinical use.
- Standardized protocols are needed for the clinical implementation of these novel biomarkers.
