Preeclampsia discovery could lead to new test and treatments for at-risk pregnancies
Researchers at the University of Cambridge have identified a protein linked to placental development that could predict preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. This discovery may lead to new diagnostic tests and treatments for high-risk pregnancies.
Why it matters
Preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction are leading causes of maternal and infant mortality; better prediction tools could significantly improve pregnancy outcomes.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Robert Egan
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Add as preferred source Credit: Pixabay/CC0 Public Domain Cambridge scientists have identified a key protein that could act as a predictor for preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction, two of the major causes of stillbirth and illness among mothers and newborns. The discovery helps explain why placental cells fail to properly "invade" the uterus in these related conditions and could lead to tests that help identify those at greatest risk and new treatments. The findings are published in Nature Medicine .
Preeclampsia affects around one in 20 pregnancies worldwide and is a leading cause of maternal and fetal health complications, contributing significantly to mortality among mothers and babies worldwide.
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