Evaluating midpregnancy Gas6 levels as predictive value for gestational diabetes and birth outcomes

This study investigated the relationship between maternal serum growth arrest-specific 6 (Gas6) levels measured in the second trimester of pregnancy and the development of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM); it also evaluated the possible links between this biomarker and maternal and neonatal outcomes.

A total of 173 pregnant women were included in this prospective study (89 diagnosed with GDM, 84 healthy controls). Gas6 levels were measured using the ELISA method from blood samples taken during routine screening in the second trimester. The relationships between Gas6 levels and body mass index (BMI), oral glucose tolerance test results, and neonatal data were statistically analysed.

Gas6 levels were significantly higher in the GDM group (p<0.001). A strong positive correlation was found between Gas6 and maternal BMI (r=0.774), and a moderate positive correlation between Gas6 and oral glucose tolerance test 1-hour glucose level (r=0.577). Additionally, high Gas6 levels were found to be statistically significant in association with increased birth weight and intensive care requirements.

Increased Gas6 levels in the second trimester may be a potential biomarker for early prediction of GDM risk and perinatal complications.