Relevance of molecular medicine to clinical obstetrics and gynecology.
Understanding molecular biology can improve the clinical acumen of the practicing obstetrician/gynecologist. An area of basic research now becoming clinically relevant involves the G proteins and G protein-coupled receptors. Clinicians already manipulate G protein-coupled receptors in their daily practice. Examples include the administration of oxytocin (oxytocin receptors), beta-2 tocolytic agents (beta 2-adrenergic receptors), GnRH agonists (GnRH receptors), exogenous gonadotropins (FSH and LH receptors), and bromocriptine (dopamine receptor). Clinically important disorders presenting to the obstetrician/gynecologist include some forms of precocious puberty, delayed puberty, premature ovarian failure, and pituitary adenomas which are due to mutations of G proteins and G protein-coupled receptors. The importance of these proteins is demonstrated by the fact that G protein-related genes comprise about 1 percent of the human genome. Additionally, the knowledge that some G protein gene mutations are present in the germ line, and others are somatic cell in origin (and not heritable), aids in more accurate genetic counseling to patients.
Cohen
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Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Chicago, Illinois 60637, USA.
Layman
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LC
D002450:Cell Communication / Q000502:physiology; D004700:Endocrine System Diseases / Q000235:genetics* / Q000517:prevention & control / Q000628:therapy; D005260:Female; D019204:GTP-Binding Proteins / Q000235:genetics* / Q000502:physiology; D005817:Genetic Counseling; D006176:Gynecology; D006801:Humans; D009774:Obstetrics; D011247:Pregnancy; D011967:Receptors, Gonadotropin / Q000235:genetics
D011967:Receptors, Gonadotropin; D019204:GTP-Binding Proteins