Changes in Gene Expression of the Decidua in Placental Dysfunction
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Changes in Gene Expression of the Pre-implantation Decidua in Women at High Risk of Placental Dysfunction in Pregnancy
IRAS ID
237830
Contact name
Jenny Myers
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Duration of Study in the UK
2 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Background: Pre-eclampsia is a common disorder of pregnancy that is characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Affecting 4-8% of pregnancies worldwide, it is a recognised cause of maternal disease and death. Its development is only partially understood, but is thought to result from abnormal development of the placenta and damage to blood vessels, starting in early pregnancy. Successful development of the placenta relies upon the lining of the womb becoming receptive to the embryo, and by invasion of the embryo itself. Aberrant function of these could lead to poor placental function and the development of pre-eclampsia.
Aim: To determine if there are differences in gene expression of the lining of the womb at the time of embryo implantation in women affected by pre-eclampsia, in comparison to a low risk control group. To explore the use of gene sequencing technology to identify altered gene expression in these samples.
Method: Women who have had pre-eclampsia will be invited to join the study. At a single research clinic appointment, a medical history questionnaire will be completed and sampling of the lining of the womb will be performed. Samples from these women will be compared to a control group who are low risk of developing pre-eclampsia. Laboratory studies will investigate for genetic differences between these women.
How it will benefit: Gene analysis of the lining of the womb at the time of embryo implantation has not been performed previously, to determine a maternal association with pre-eclampsia. Identifying genetic differences of the lining of the womb could help us to understand the development of pre-eclampsia.
Significance of the research: The impact of severe pre-eclampsia on affected women and their babies is immense. Improving our understanding of the disease is fundamental to improve diagnosis, optimise clinical care and counsel affected women.REC name
North West - Greater Manchester East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
18/NW/0219
Date of REC Opinion
10 May 2018
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion