Gene characteristics of placental membrane cells determine the chance of preterm birth

  In a recent study, the Dimes Preterm Birth Research Center, led by researchers from the University of Chicago, conducted a new study that found new genetic markers related to gestational age and provided new insights into potential risk factors for preterm birth .

  With the help of several laboratories, researchers have begun to map key gene regulatory regions and genetic markers related to preterm birth. Their first challenge is to solve the problem of lack of functional genomics data for pregnancy-related tissue types. Dr. Carol Over, chair and co-author of the Department of Human Genetics at the University of Chicago, said: “There are many genetic and tissue-related resources in public databases, but pregnancy-related diseases, such as premature birth, receive little attention.”

  This article describes endometrial cells attached to the placenta. The paper was published in "Science Progress" and focused on the origin of decidual cells. Decidualized cells line up in the uterus in the later stages of the menstrual cycle to prepare for the implantation of the uterus and support the growth and development of the placenta and the placenta during pregnancy. Researchers collected placental tissue and isolated decidual cells donated by delivery patients in the laboratory. Genetic analysis of these cells identified two new candidate genes for preterm birth, HAND2 and GATA2, and Ivy Aneas, associate professor of human genetics at the University of Chicago, co-lead author. An important transcription factor for gene expression. HAND2 mediates the effect of progesterone on the uterus. Epithelial cells, GATA2 participates in the development of stem cells. Maintenance

  These processes and the genes that control them are known to be important for progesterone decidualization and embryo transfer. Co-lead author Dr. Noberu Sakabe said: "We have clarified the link between these two genes and gestational age. This fact suggests that their role in pregnancy may be more important than previously expected."