New method to predict risk of foetal growth restriction
New method to predict risk of foetal growth restriction
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Wednesday, 11, Mar 2009 12:06
Scientists claim to have discovered a way to predict the risk of foetal growth restriction (FGR).
A study published in BJOG: An International Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology today shows how predictions can be made by analysing maternal urine for modified DNA while the foetus is still developing in the womb.
Researchers at the University of Leicester show how oxidative stress in pregnancy can be detected via a simple, non-invasive test, so that appropriate care can be given to foetuses suspected of being growth restricted.
Oxidative stress is defined as an imbalance in the prooxidant-antioxidant system, which could lead to cellular damage.
During the study researchers collected spot urine samples from 110 pregnant women at late first trimester (12 ± 2 weeks) and during the late second trimester (28 ± 2 weeks).
The urine samples were then analysed for 8-oxo-7, 8-dihydro-2'-deoxyguanosine (8-oxodG), a biomarker for oxidative stress
Dr Neelam Potdar from the reproductive sciences section at the Leicester Royal Infirmary, said: "This study showed the levels of 8-oxodG, at 12 and 28 weeks of pregnancy were significantly increased in the urine of women who subsequently delivered small babies compared to the levels in those with well grown babies.
"This increase may reflect early placental changes and if confirmed in further studies it could be used as a non-invasive, potential biomarker for identifying women who will have small babies".
Professor Philip Steer BJOG editor-in-chief added: "This is an interesting pilot study since it reveals to us an early indicator of small for gestational age (SGA) babies.
"Further large-scale studies on different populations are needed to confirm the results.
"This is an interesting development in obstetric science since what we have here is a new test to predict if pregnancies will be further complicated by FGR."