Investigation of the Rs722503 Polymorphism in the FLT1 Gene and Its Association with Preeclampsia Susceptibility in the East Azerbaijan Province, Iran

Shalaleh  Aghaei; Haniyeh  Jafari; Masoud  Maleki

doi:10.18502/igj.v6i4.17099

Shalaleh Aghaei Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
Haniyeh Jafari Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch, Tabriz, Iran
Masoud Maleki Department of Biology, Islamic Azad University, Tabriz Branch, Tabriz, Iran

DOI: https://doi.org/10.18502/igj.v6i4.17099

Keywords: FLT1; Genetic Association Studies; Preeclampsia; Single Nucleotide Polymorphism

Abstract

Background: Genetic predisposition plays a crucial role in the development of preeclampsia, with the FLT1 gene implicated in angiogenesis and endothelial dysfunction, both central to the disease's pathophysiology. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the rs722503 polymorphism of the FLT1 gene and susceptibility to preeclampsia in pregnant women in East Azerbaijan Province, Iran.

Method: In this case-control study, 24 fetal cord blood samples from pregnant women, including 13 with preeclampsia and 11 healthy controls, were recruited from healthcare centers in East Azerbaijan Province. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples, and the rs722503 polymorphism in the FLT1 gene was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR products were then subjected to electrophoresis to observe the desired polymorphism. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the association between the rs722503 polymorphism and preeclampsia risk

Results: A significant association was found between the rs722503 polymorphism of the FLT1 gene and the risk of preeclampsia. Women with the TT genotype had a higher risk of developing preeclampsia compared to those with the CC genotype (P-value < 0.05). The frequency of the T allele was also significantly higher in the preeclampsia group compared to controls

Conclusion: The rs722503 polymorphism of the FLT1 gene may be a genetic risk factor for preeclampsia in the population of East Azerbaijan Province. These findings could contribute to early identification of at-risk individuals and potential development of targeted therapeutic strategies.