OptiPREG
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Optimal nutrition for prevention of hypertension in pregnancy using a personalised approach (OptiPREG)
IRAS ID
194062
Contact name
Kristina Pentieva
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Ulster University
Duration of Study in the UK
8 years, 0 months, 1 days
Research summary
Around 10% of the world’s population have a particular genetic make-up (known as the TT genotype) that may increase the risk of having high blood pressure (hypertension). Previous work, conducted in our research centre has shown that supplementation with the B-vitamin riboflavin in non-pregnant cohorts decreases blood pressure specifically in individuals with the TT genotype. Pregnancy is a condition associated with a slight elevation of BP although still within the normal range. Studies showed that women with a TT genotype may be at a higher risk of having an increased blood pressure during pregnancy which may be associated with unfavourable pregnancy outcomes. The aim of this study is to investigate the effect of a low dose riboflavin supplementation (1.6mg)within the dietary range) on blood pressure in pregnant women with TT genotype. Healthy women in their first trimester of pregnancy will be recruited from the antenatal clinics at the local hospitals. Women will be screened and only those identified with the TT genotype will be invited to participate in the study. Women will be randomly assigned to take a low dose of riboflavin supplement ( or placebo from 16th week of gestation until delivery and to attend a total of two appointments, at 16th and at 36th weeks of gestation. At each appointment a blood sample will be taken together with a blood pressure measurement.As a way of controlling the blood pressure changes during pregnancy, a group of pregnant women without TT genotype will participate in a observational study where their blood pressure will be taken at the same time points (16th & 36th week of gestation). If the results of this study show that intervention with riboflavin can contribute to blood pressure lowering in pregnant women with the TT genotype then this could emerge as an important factor for consideration in clinical practice for prevention of pregnancy induced hypertension.
REC name
HSC REC B
REC reference
16/NI/0029
Date of REC Opinion
16 Mar 2016
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion