Preeclampsia is a vascular disorder occurring in 3% to 5% of pregnancies, encompassing hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDPs), which include gestational hypertension and preeclampsia. These conditions significantly contribute to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality globally. Women with HDPs also face an increased long-term risk of cardiovascular disease.
A recent study published in JAMA Cardiology reported genetic associations of circulating cardiovascular proteins with gestational hypertension and pre-eclampsia. The researchers aimed to identify proteins in circulation linked to HDPs. Through their investigation, they identified several proteins with compelling evidence suggesting causal or protective roles in the development of hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. These findings provide insights into the origins of these conditions and may pave the way for potential prevention or treatment strategies.
Dr. Schuermans and colleagues obtained genetic data from 21,758 participants for cardiovascular disease-related proteins, 393,238 female individuals for gestational hypertension, and 606,903 female individuals for preeclampsia. They identified six proteins involved in cardiovascular and inflammatory processes—CD40, cystatin B, eosinophil cationic protein, galectin-3, heat shock protein 27, and N-terminal pro-B type natriuretic peptide—they highlighted these proteins as contributors to or protectors against these conditions.
In line with this study, Tyrmi et al. also reported that genes related to blood pressure traits are associated with preeclampsia. However, many of these genes exhibit additional pleiotropic effects on cardiometabolic, endothelial, and placental function.
The study revealing novel associations sheds light on the biology of HDPs, and the newly identified proteins may serve as potential therapeutic targets. This discovery also indicates the involvement of diverse pathways, including blood vessel regulation, inflammation, and immunity, in the development of these conditions. Subsequent studies involving animal models and human trials are warranted to develop new treatment approaches aiming to reduce the occurrence of HDPs and preeclampsia in expectant mothers.
References
- Schuermans A, Truong B, Ardissino M, Bhukar R, Slob EAW, Nakao T, et al. Genetic Associations of Circulating Cardiovascular Proteins with Gestational Hypertension and Preeclampsia. JAMA Cardiology [Internet]. 2024 Jan 3 [cited 2024 Jan 5].
- Tyrmi JS, Kaartokallio T, Lokki AI, Jääskeläinen T, Kortelainen E, Ruotsalainen S, et al. Genetic Risk Factors Associated with Preeclampsia and Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy. JAMA Cardiol. 2023 Jul;8(7):674–83.