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The significance of genetics in pathophysiologic models of premature birth

Jose Uberos1

  • 1Neonatal Unit, Hospital Clínico San Cecilio, Granada, Spain - juberos@ugr.es.

Minerva Pediatrica
|June 2, 2017
PubMed

Insights

Genetic factors significantly influence premature birth, a major global health issue. Research highlights specific gene polymorphisms linked to various prematurity pathways, underscoring the need for genetic insights.

Area of Science:

  • Genetics
  • Reproductive Biology
  • Immunology

Background:

  • Prematurity is a significant global health concern, with recurrence suggesting genetic influences.
  • Genetic polymorphisms are associated with four key pathophysiological models of prematurity.
  • These models include inflammation, premature contractions, decidual hemorrhage, and toxin susceptibility.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To update current knowledge on genes associated with premature birth.
  • To review and synthesize existing research on genetic factors in prematurity.

Main Methods:

  • A systematic literature search identified 240 articles.
  • 125 articles were included in a qualitative analysis after excluding irrelevant or duplicated studies.
  • The review focused on original, English-language research.

Main Results:

  • Specific gene polymorphisms are implicated in prematurity to varying degrees.
  • These genetic variations contribute to different pathogenetic mechanisms underlying preterm birth.

Conclusions:

  • The fetus is recognized as genetically distinct by the maternal immune system.
  • Maternal physiology adapts to support fetal development, indicating active roles for both mother and fetus in birth.
Abstract

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