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Updated: Aug 5, 2026
08:27
Large-Scale Multi-Omics Genome-Wide Association Studies (Mo-GWAS): Guidelines for Sample Preparation and Normalization
Published on: July 27, 2021
Genome-wide association analyses of gestational phenotypes identify context-specific genetic effects
Siyang Liu1,2, Hao Zheng3,4,5, Yuqin Gu6
1Faculty of Medicine, Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen, China. liusy99@mail.sysu.edu.cn.
Nature Genetics
|July 27, 2026
Summary
This study reveals the genetic blueprint of pregnancy, uncovering new gene associations and dynamic genetic effects influencing maternal health throughout life. It provides a foundation for personalized maternal healthcare strategies.
Area of Science:
- Genetics
- Reproductive Biology
- Public Health
Background:
- The genetic underpinnings of human pregnancy phenotypes and their long-term impact on maternal health are not fully understood.
- Investigating genetic associations with gestational traits is crucial for advancing reproductive medicine.
Purpose of the Study:
- To comprehensively map the genetic architecture of human gestation.
- To explore the dynamic genetic influences on pregnancy phenotypes and their connections to maternal health across the lifespan.
- To establish a genetic framework for precision maternal health.
Main Methods:
- Genome-wide association study (GWAS) of 111 pregnancy phenotypes in up to 121,579 individuals.
- Analysis of genotype-by-gestational-timing interactions for longitudinal hematological traits.
- Genetic correlation and Mendelian randomization analyses with disease and medication data.
Main Results:
- Identified 4,688 independent genome-wide significant signals, including 1,703 novel associations.
- Discovered gestation-specific genetic effects for 7.8% of variants and dynamic genetic interactions in hematological traits.
- Revealed shared genetic factors and potential causal links between gestational phenotypes and maternal mid-to-late-life health outcomes.
Conclusions:
- This research presents a dynamic genetic atlas of human gestation.
- Findings provide insights into maternal-fetal interactions and genetic influences on pregnancy.
- Establishes a foundation for developing precision medicine approaches in maternal healthcare.
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