Barrier genes are associated with preterm birth

Barrier genes are associated with preterm birth

BackgroundBiological barriers are essential for maintaining integrity and function and preventing microbial invasion. Maternal barrier dysfunction may play a role in preterm birth (PTB). However, the link between maternal barrier function and PTB is still unknown. This study aims to identify genetic...

Full description

Saved in:
Bibliographic Details
Main Authors: Kuan-Ru Chen, Shih-Kai Chu, Pao-Lin Kuo
Format: Article
Language:English
Published: Frontiers Media S.A. 2025-06-01
Series:Frontiers in Medicine
Subjects:
preterm birth
NOTCH1
maternal barrier genes
genome-wide association studies
genetic variant
Online Access:https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmed.2025.1580877/full
Tags: Add Tag
No Tags, Be the first to tag this record!
Description
Summary:BackgroundBiological barriers are essential for maintaining integrity and function and preventing microbial invasion. Maternal barrier dysfunction may play a role in preterm birth (PTB). However, the link between maternal barrier function and PTB is still unknown. This study aims to identify genetic evidence supporting the role of maternal barrier genes in PTB risk.MethodsWe examined 201 barrier-related genes to assess their association with PTB susceptibility. We utilized the FinnGen study, published literature's whole-genome sequencing (WGS) summary statistics and Early Growth Genetics (EGG) meta-analysis to identify the maternal barrier gene associated with PTB.ResultsFindings from the analysis of the maternal genome highlighted several barrier genes (NOTCH1, LAMA4, F11R, MAGI1, MAGI2, TJP1, PARD3, CLDN10, CLDN14, CLDN15, GRHL3, CGNL1, LAMB2, RHOA, and LRP5) associated with PTB. Notably, NOTCH1 was supported by at least two independent genomic datasets.ConclusionThe established roles of NOTCH1 in vascular barrier function, angiogenesis, decidualization, intestinal epithelial barrier, and inflammation support its mechanistic involvement. Our research enhances our understanding of maternal barrier genes linked to PTB, providing valuable insights for future prevention and intervention strategies.
ISSN:2296-858X

Similar Items