4 Fetal c-reactive protein rs1205 genotype is associated with maternal pre-eclampsia

Abstract Abstract: Introduction Maternal variants including C-Reactive Protein, CRP rs1205 have previously been associated with risk of pre-eclampsia (PE). These findings were replicated in two non-American Indian populations. The rs1205 T allele is associated with reduced serum levels of CRP. Our objective was to determine if the fetal rs1205 genotype ­contributed to maternal risk of PE independent of maternal rs1205 genotype. Methods Only offspring of both case and control mothers heterozygous for rs1205 were enrolled, thus controlling for maternal genetic influence at this locus. ­Offspring were then genotyped for rs1205 by TaqMan assay. Association was assessed by chi-square and multivariate logistic regression. Results Offspring of 10 of 45 normal pregnancies and 11 of 24 PE pregnancies exhibited the rs1205 C allele recessive genotype (Pearson chi square p = 0.042). Multivariate logistic regression analysis adjusted for maternal age, nulliparity and BMI demonstrates an odds ratio of 3.603, p = 0.043, 95% CI 1.042-12.457 for the fetal, C recessive genotype. Discussion Among 69 women, heterozygous for the rs1205 allele, both chi-square and multivariate adjusted logistic analysis shows significant association of PE among pregnancies with fetal rs1205 C recessive genotypes. This is consistent with previous findings of reduced risk associated with this maternal genotype, and with a pathophysiologic model wherein increased placental CRP expression increases risk of PE. (Supported by NIGMS P20GM103442)