Genetics of the cervix in relation to preterm birth.
Preterm birth is the most significant problem encountered in obstetrics in the developed world. Genetic factors are thought to play a role in a proportion of preterm births, and candidate genes have been studied in several areas relevant to parturition. Abnormal cervical function, a clinical spectrum, including cervical insufficiency (CI), is a contributing factor to the overall problem of preterm birth. There are many risk factors and etiologies for CI. However, it is becoming clear that, at least in part, a genetic predisposition to CI plays a role in the condition. Specifically, genes related to connective tissue metabolism and inflammation have been shown to be associated with CI.
Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT 84132, USA.
Jennifer E
JE
Warren
Robert M
RM
Silver
D002584:Cervix Uteri / Q000502:physiology*; D003238:Connective Tissue / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D020022:Genetic Predisposition to Disease; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D011247:Pregnancy; D047928:Premature Birth / Q000235:genetics*; D002581:Uterine Cervical Incompetence / Q000235:genetics* / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism