Maternal and neonatal leptin and leptin receptor polymorphisms associated with preterm birth

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Hagit Salem1, Talya Rosenfeld2, Gheona Altarescu3

  • 1Department of Nutrition, Faculty of Health Sciences, Ariel University, Israel.

Gene
|July 10, 2016
PubMed

Insights

Genetic variations in leptin (LEP) and leptin receptor (LEPR) are linked to preterm birth (PTB). Specific LEP and LEPR gene polymorphisms in mothers and newborns increase the risk of PTB.

Area of Science:

  • Reproductive biology
  • Genetics
  • Perinatology

Background:

  • Leptin (LEP) and leptin receptor (LEPR) are crucial for female reproduction and pregnancy.
  • Both LEP and LEPR are produced by the mother and embryo during gestation.
  • The association between LEP and LEPR genetic variations and preterm birth (PTB) remains largely unexplored.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the relationship between maternal and neonatal genetic polymorphisms of LEP and LEPR and the incidence of PTB.
  • To identify specific LEP and LEPR genotypes associated with an increased risk of preterm birth.

Main Methods:

  • DNA was collected from Israeli mothers and their preterm newborns (n=102) and control term newborns (n=158).
  • Maternal and neonatal LEP (rs7799039) and LEPR (rs1137101) polymorphisms were analyzed using restriction fragment length polymorphism analysis.
  • Genotype-phenotype associations were evaluated using SPSS software.

Main Results:

  • Women with the homozygous AA LEP genotype had a 2.53-fold increased risk of PTB compared to other genotypes.
  • Neonates with the AA LEP genotype showed a 2.8-fold increased risk for PTB.
  • Maternal LEPR polymorphisms (AA and AG genotypes) were significantly associated with a 4.32 to 4.76-fold increased risk for severe PTB compared to the GG genotype.

Conclusions:

  • Maternal and neonatal LEP polymorphisms are significantly associated with an increased risk of preterm birth.
  • LEPR gene variations in mothers are linked to a higher risk of severe preterm birth.
  • These findings highlight the role of LEP and LEPR genetics in PTB risk.
Abstract

Keywords:
Leptin (LEP)Leptin receptor (LEPR)Preterm birth (PTB)SNPs

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