Masters Degrees (Anatomical Pathology)

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Browsing Masters Degrees (Anatomical Pathology) by browse.metadata.advisor "Hillermann, R."

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    Genetic aspects of pre-eclampsia : mutation screening of the low-density lipoprotein receptor, methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase, prothrombin and factor V candidate genes
    (Stellenbosch : Stellenbosch University, 2001-03) Gebhardt, G. S.; Odendaal, H. J.; Hillermann, R.; Kotze, Maritha J.; Stellenbosch University. Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences. Dept. of Pathology. Anatomical Pathology.
    ENGLISH ABSTRACT: Pre-eclampsia is a condition unique to pregnancy and primarily affects the maternal and placental vascular endothelium. It has significant morbidity and mortality consequences for both mother and infant. Despite global research into the aetiology of the condition, the cause for this condition remains unknown. Several factors, including a strong family history of hypertension in pregnancy point to a familial or genetic component in the pathophysiology of this complication. The purpose of this research project was to investigate candidate genes implicated in endothelial damage. Common methylene-tetra-hydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mutations C677T and A1298C, factor V Leiden mutation R506Q and prothrombin mutation A20210G were investigated in 50 patients with an uncomplicated pregnancy outcome (controls) and 350 patients with various clinical manifestations of preeclampsia, including severe, early onset forms and abruptio placentae. Fasting homocystein levels were determined biochemically on all participants. In addition, 126 consecutive pregnant patients were recruited at booking, fasting lipograms were performed on them as well as mutation screening of 7 common mutations in the low-density lipoprotein receptor gene. This was correlated with eventual pregnancy outcome, and those with an uncomplicated outcome were selected as an additional control group. A significant association between hyperhomocysteinaemia and early onset severe pre-eclampsia could be demonstrated. Mutant allele T of the C677T mutation could be associated with hyperhomocysteinaemia but not with pre-eclampsia whilst mutant allele C of mutation A1298C demonstrated a significant correlation with diastolic blood pressure. In addition, combined heterozygosity for these mutations may serve as a marker for abruptio placentae.