Measuring maternal miRNA to predict pregnancy outcome

• Research type

  Research Study

• Full title

  Measuring levels of maternal cell microRNAS to predict adverse pregnancy outcome

• IRAS ID

  241171

• Contact name

  Paul Serhal

• Contact email

  paul.serhal@crgh.co.uk

• Sponsor organisation

  Centre for Reproductive and Genetic Health

• ISRCTN Number

  ISRCTN74967568

• Duration of Study in the UK

  1 years, 0 months, 1 days

• Research summary

  Micro-RNAs (miRNAs) are small molecules, which contain genetic material that is essential for all known forms of life. They control gene expression and regulation of many proteins in various biological pathways. The elevated levels of miRNAs have been shown to inhibit certain gene expression pathways, which can play a role in the development of a healthy pregnancy. Recent studies have shown that miRNAs derived from the mother during the first trimester can predict adverse pregnancy outcome.
  The aim of this study is to develop a first trimester predictor test for identifying pregnant women at high risk of developing various pregnancy complications. These complications include high blood pressure in pregnancy know as pre-eclampsia, miscarriage (pregnancy loss) and spontaneous pre-term birth (delivery 24 and < 37 weeks of pregnancy). In this study, maternal miRNAs derived from a blood test will be measured in successfully conceived pregnant women. Research participants will be contacted 4-6 weeks post-delivery to ascertain whether they have developed any pregnancy-related complications.

  During fertility treatment and after a positive pregnancy test, we routinely take blood tests. Subsequently, an internal scan is carried at 6 weeks to confirm viability and the location of the pregnancy. At 8-10 weeks of pregnancy, a second scan is performed and blood is drawn for the purpose of this study. Alternatively, if the patient decides to return for an NIPT (non-invasive prenatal testing), where a blood test is routinely carried out, we would draw a very small volume of blood for the purpose of this study. Drawing blood for this study will not have any influence on their treatment.

  This study will be conducted at the Centre of Reproduction and Genetic Health.
  The estimated duration of this study is approximately 24 months.

• REC name

  South Central - Oxford C Research Ethics Committee

• REC reference

  18/SC/0176

• Date of REC Opinion

  4 Apr 2018

• REC opinion

  Further Information Favourable Opinion