Molecular epidemiology of preeclampsia.
Numerous articles have been published that address the possible genetic influences on the development of preeclampsia (PE). However, to our knowledge, a complete review of the results has not yet been completed. We undertook a MEDLINE search to identify English-language articles published after January 1, 1990 that examined the possible role of specific genes in the etiology of PE. After a brief introduction and a concise review of the prevailing etiologic hypotheses, we have categorized the candidate genes into six categories, based on their hypothesized role in PE etiology. The purpose of this paper is to review the literature, comment on its quality, and provide a reference for researchers interested in the molecular epidemiology of preeclampsia.


BACKGROUND
Obstetricians & Gynecologists, Family Physicians.


OBJECTIVE
After completion of this article, the reader will be able to list the prevailing etiologic hypotheses of preeclampsia, to outline the published data on possible genetic influence on the development of preeclampsia, and to clearly state the definition of preeclampsia.
Wilson
Melissa L
ML
Program in Molecular Epidemiology, Department of Preventive Medicine, University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine, Los Angeles, California, USA.
Goodwin
Thomas Murphy
TM
Pan
Vivien L
VL
Ingles
Sue Ann
SA
D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease / Q000235:genetics*; D006801:Humans; D017720:Molecular Epidemiology; D011225:Pre-Eclampsia / Q000453:epidemiology* / Q000235:genetics*; D011247:Pregnancy