Preeclampsia triggered by an overdose of gene activity

(Max Delbr ü ck Center for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association) Preclampsia, the most dangerous form of hypertension during a pregnancy, is known to originate in the placenta. But the root causes remain largely a mystery. Findings from MDC scientists reveal that it is not a single disease caused solely by genetic factors: Epigenetically regulated genes play an important role. The Berlin research team also developed an in vitro model of the disorder which demonstrates the dysregulation of an important transcription factor.
Source: EurekAlert! - Medicine and Health - Category: International Medicine & Public Health Source Type: news