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BackgroundBronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease that mainly affects premature newborns. Many different factors, increasingly genetic, are involved in the pathogenesis of BPD. Fibronectin is a multi-domain glycoprotein present in nearly all vertebrate tissues and organs. Material and methodsThe study included 108 infants born between 24 and 32 weeks of gestation. BPD was diagnosed based on the National Institutes of Health Consensus definition. The 5 FN1 gene polymorphisms assessed in the study were the following: rs3796123; rs1968510; rs10202709; rs6725958; and rs35343655. ResultsBPD developed in 30 (38.5%) out of the 108 preterm infants. Incidence of BPD was higher in infants with lower APGAR scores, low gestational age, and low birthweight. Investigation did not confirm any significant prevelance for BPD development in any genotypes and alleles of FN1. Conclusion Further studies should be performed to confirm the role of genetic factors in etiology and pathogenesis of BPD.

Introduction: Some evidence indicates that the improper trophoblast invasion of maternal spiral arteries could be caused by an imbalance between matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs), leading to preeclampsia (PE) development. This study aimed to assess the potential role of MMP1, MMP9, TIMP1 and TIMP2 gene polymorphisms in the pathogenesis of PE. Materials and methods: A total of 308 Polish women, 115 preeclamptic (55 with early-onset preeclampsia [EOPE], 60 with late-onset preeclampsia [LOPE]) and 193 healthy pregnant women, all of Caucasian origin, were recruited to the study. PE was diagnosed following the ACOG criteria. The polymorphic variants of the MMP-TIMP pathway (MMP1 rs1799750, MMP9 rs17576, MMP9 rs17577, TIMP1 rs4898, TIMP2 rs2277698, TIMP2 rs55743137) were genotyped by polymerase chain reaction and restriction fragment length polymorphism. Results: Analyzing all SNPs in the MMP-TIMP pathway, no significant differences in allele frequencies between preeclamptic women and controls were observed. However, comparing the EOPE and LOPE groups with each other, we observed a statistically significant difference between them for the TIMP1 rs4898 variant. In the whole group of 308 women, the mean placenta weight was the lowest in carriers of the rs4898 CC genotype. Post hoc analysis revealed significant differences between CC-CT (p = 0.0209) and CC-TT (p = 0.0469). Additionally, during allele analysis, a statistically significant difference in the mean placenta weight (for C allele 529.32 ± 157.11 g, for T allele 560.24 ± 162.24 g, p = 0.021) was also observed. Conclusion: Our findings suggest a relationship between TIMP1 rs4898 (372T > C) polymorphism and increased risk of early-onset preeclampsia in a population of pregnant Polish women. Our data suggest that the TIMP1 rs4898 C allele might be associated with increased risk for early-onset, but not for late-onset preeclampsia. To evaluate the role of the TIMP1 polymorphic variants in the etiopathology of preeclampsia, further studies with a larger sample size are needed.

Background: Appropriate levels of cholesterol are necessary for the mother and developing fetus, but theirexcess may cause preeclampsia. The ABCA1 transporter mediates the secretion of cholesterol and is highly regulated at the transcriptional level via the nuclear liver X receptors (LXRs). Methods: Sixteen preeclamptic and 39 normotensives healthy women with uncomplicated pregnancies were involved in the case-control study. The placental levels of ABCA1, LXRA and LXRB mRNA were quantified by real-time quantitative PCR. The concentrations of ABCA1, LXRA and LXRB proteins from the placenta were determined using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay Results: We found in the logistic regression model significantly lower placental expression of LXRB mRNA (crude OR = 0.26, 95% CI: 0.07–0.94, p = 0.040) and LXRA protein level (crude OR = 0.19, 95% CI: 0.05–0.69, p = 0.012) in late-onset preeclamptic women compared to healthy pregnant women. The values remained statistically significant after adjustment for possible confounders. Conclusions: Our results suggest that high placenta LXRA mRNA and LXRA protein expression levels decrease the risk of late-onset preeclampsia. These nuclear receptors could play a role in the development of preeclampsia through disturbances of lipid metabolism.

A few years ago it was shown that disturbed metabolism of the vitamin D/receptor (VD/VDR) complex may be important in the etiology of spontaneous abortion, as well as in the etiology of recurrent miscarriages (RM). The goal of this study was to investigate the association between four maternal VDR polymorphisms as well as haplotypes settings and RM occurrence in a Polish population of women in reproductive age. A total of 230 women were recruited to this study (110 with RM, 120 consecutively recruited age-matched healthy women with at least two full-term pregnancies and with no history of miscarriages). DNA samples were genotyped for VDR polymorphisms: FokI (rs2228570), BsmI (rs1544410), ApaI (rs7975232) and TaqI (rs731236). Significant differences in genotype distributions and allele frequencies between case and control groups were observed in VDR BsmI polymorphism (GG vs. GA and AA, OR = 0.56, p = 0.036 and OR = 1.49, p = 0.035, respectively). The best evidence of an association with RM prevention was observed for the TTGT haplotype, which was more frequent among controls than cases even after permutation test (0.09 vs. 0.017, p = 0.0024). Other haplotypes were also significantly more frequent in the control group: TGT (rs7975232, rs1544410, rs2228570), TG (rs7975232, rs1544410), TTG (rs731236, rs7975232, rs1544410), TT (rs731236, rs7975232). Our research indicated the possible role of VDR BsmI genetic polymorphism in RM etiology, suggesting at the same time the active role of maternal VD metabolism and its influence on pregnancy outcome. The significant influence of several maternal haplotypes was shown to prevent RM occurrence.

Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is a global health issue affecting a significant number of infertile women who undergo in vitro fertilization (IVF) cycles. Extensive vasculogenesis and angiogenesis occur in both maternal and fetal placental tissues, and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF) family molecules and their receptors are potent angiogenic mediators in the placenta. Five single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in the genes encoding angiogenesis-related factors were selected and genotyped in 247 women who had undergone the ART procedure and 120 healthy controls. Genotyping was conducted by polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP). A variant of the kinase insertion domain receptor (KDR) gene (rs2071559) was associated with an increased risk of infertility after adjusting for age and BMI (OR = 0.64; 95% CI: 0.45–0.91, p = 0.013 in a log-additive model). Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) rs699947 was associated with an increased risk of recurrent implantation failures under a dominant (OR = 2.34; 95% CI: 1.11–4.94, padj. = 0.022) and a log-additive model (OR = 0.65; 95% CI 0.43–0.99, padj. = 0.038). Variants of the KDR gene (rs1870377, rs2071559) in the whole group were in linkage equilibrium (D’ = 0.25, r2 = 0.025). Gene–gene interaction analysis showed the strongest interactions between the KDR gene SNPs rs2071559–rs1870377 (p = 0.004) and KDR rs1870377–VEGFA rs699947 (p = 0.030). Our study revealed that the KDR gene rs2071559 variant may be associated with infertility and rs699947 VEGFA with an increased risk of recurrent implantation failures in infertile ART treated Polish women.

Objectives: Intrahepatic cholestasis in pregnancy (ICP) is a pregnancy-specific liver disorder. Its etiology is not fully understood. Increasing evidence indicates the important role of vitamin D and the vitamin D receptor (VDR) in this disorder. The presence of polymorphic variants in the VDR gene could influence its activity and susceptibility to ICP development. The goal of the study was to investigate the role of four genetic polymorphisms of the VDR gene — Fok (rs731236), Bsm (rs1544410), Apa (rs7975232), and Taq (rs731236) — in the etiology of ICP in Polish women. Material and methods: Ninety-eight women with confirmed ICP and 215 healthy pregnant women as a control group were recruited to the study. We examined four SNPs of the VDR gene: BsmI (rs7975232), TaqI (rs1544410), ApaI (rs228570), FokI (rs731236). Genotyping was performed using the PCR/RFLP method. Results: We observed higher frequency (borderline significant) of the Ff-ff genotypes containing at least one mutated allele of the VDR FokI polymorphism in the control group compared to the ICP group (p = 0.045, OR = 1.71, 95% CI 1.01–2.88). The frequency of the mutated f allele was slightly higher in controls (49.1%) than in the ICP group (43.4%) (OR = 1.26, 95% CI 0.90–1.77), but the difference was not statistically significant (p = 0.196). Conclusions: Our results showed that the maternal VDR FokI polymorphism could play a protective role in ICP development and probably modulate the risk of ICP occurrence in pregnant women in the Polish population. In the future, to confirm these observations, research in larger, ethnically stratified and clinically analyzed groups is necessary.

Background: Preterm delivery (PTD) accounts for around 11% of pregnancies worldwide. Unfortunately, no diagnostic indicator, specific mechanism or genetic predisposition has yet been identified. One of the hypotheses suggest local or functional progesterone decrease as a potential reason for preterm uterine contractions leading to preterm delivery. It is believed that any change in progesterone receptor DNA may be crucial for higher risk of preterm delivery due to abnormal response to prostaglandins, normally inhibited by properly built progesterone. The aim of this study was to determine whether there is an association between progesterone gene polymorphisms (PROGINS and +331G/A) and preterm birth. Methods and Results: A total of 230 women were enrolled, including 115 cases of preterm deliveries (between 22 and 36 weeks of gestation) and 115 healthy mothers of full-term infants. Genomic DNA was isolated from the blood sample. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification was carried out in a final volume of 25µl. Genotyping was assayed by PCR. Statistical analysis of the results was conducted with p For both PROGINS (Alu ins/del) and +331G/A (rs10895068) polymorphisms were equally frequent in case and control group. The prevalence of PGR alleles in both groups was also comparable.Conclusion: The results of our study showed no association between progesterone gene polymorphisms (PROGINS and +331G/A) and risk of preterm delivery. Identifying mechanisms to prolong the length of gestation, particularly in women at risk for preterm delivery, will improve both maternal and fetal outcomes.

Background/introduction Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a dangerous complication facing a significant proportion of preterm infants. It is multifactorial in nature, and an observed fibronectin deficiency in the germinal matrix basal lamina is among the most prominent factors that influence such rupture. Better understanding of the FN1 gene polymorphisms and their role in IVH may further clarify the presence of a genetic susceptibility of certain babies to this complication. The aim of this study was to assess if 5 single nucleotide polymorphisms of the fibronectin gene may be linked to an increased incidence of IVH. Material and methods The study included 108 infants born between 24 and 32 weeks of gestation. IVH was diagnosed using cranial ultrasound performed on the 1st,3rd, and 7th day after birth and classified according to Papile et al. IVH classification. The 5 FN1 gene polymorphisms assessed in the study were the following: rs3796123; rs1968510; rs10202709; rs6725958; and rs35343655. Results IVH developed in 51 (47.2%) out of the 108 preterm infants. This includes, 18 (35.3%) with stage I IVH, 19 (37.3%) with stage II, 11 (21.6%) with stage III, and 3 (5.9%) with stage IV IVH. Incidence of IVH was higher in infants with lower APGAR scores, low gestational age, and low birthweight. Analysis showed that IVH stage II to IV was approximately seven times more likely to occur in infants with the genotype TT FN1 rs10202709 (OR 7237 (1046–79.59; p = 0,044)). No other significant association was found with the rest of the polymorphisms. Conclusion The results of our study indicate a sevenfold increased genetic susceptibility to IVH in preterm infants with the TT FN1 rs10202709 gene polymorphism. The fibronectin gene polymorphism may therefore be of crucial importance as a genetic risk factor for IVH in preterm infants. Further studies are warranted.

Introduction A growing body of evidence shows that genetics plays a vital role in the development and progression of retinopathy of prematurity (ROP). Perinatal inflammation is also considered an important risk factor of ROP. Therefore, understanding the interplay of genetics and susceptibility to inflammation might shed light on the pathogenesis of ROP and make its screening and treatment more effective in preventing visual impairment in premature infants. Material and methods This study investigated the correlation of inflammation-associated gene polymorphisms: IL-1β +3953 C>T, IL-1RN VNTR 86 bp, IL-6 -174 G>C, IL-6 -596 G>A, and TNF-α -308 G>A as well as demographic and clinical characteristics of ROP in preterm infants (n = 90). Results Our results demonstrate that IL-1RN rs2234663 1/1 genotype prevails in infants with ROP that regresses without intervention, when compared to those requiring laser photocoagulation/anti-VEGF injection (p = 0.031). Genotype 2/2 of IL-1RN occurs more frequently in children with severe ROP (28.6%) than in the group in which ROP regressed spontaneously (4.0%). The analysis revealed also differences between the genotypes of IL-1RN in ROP patients with intrauterine infection and in patients who had ROP without intrauterine infection; however, this was not statistically significant. Other studied polymorphisms were not associated with ROP development or its progression. Conclusions These results suggest that different genotypes of IL-1RN might have an impact on the course of ROP. Genotype 2/2 of IL-1RN gene may predispose to ROP progression.

(1) Background: Considerable evidence indicates that the occurrence of preeclampsia (PE) is associated with a reduced vitamin D (VD) level. Several studies have found that VD deficiency is correlated with disturbed trophoblast invasion, reduced angiogenesis and increased vasoconstriction. Because the vitamin D receptor (VDR) and CYP27B1 and CYP2R1 hydrolases are strongly involved in VD metabolism, the goal of the present study was to evaluate their genes and proteins expression in the placentas from preeclamptic women. (2) Methods: Samples and clinical data were obtained from 100 Polish women (41 women with preeclampsia and 59 healthy pregnant controls). The whole PE group was divided into subgroups according to gestation week of pregnancy ending before and after 34 gestational weeks (early/late-onset preeclampsia (EOPE/LOPE)). However, finally, to reduce confounding by differences in gestational age, the EOPE group was excluded from the analysis of mRNA and protein placental expression, and we focus on the comparison between LOPE and control groups. The placental VDR, CYP27B1 and CYP2R1 mRNA expression was analyzed using RT-PCR, and placental protein levels were determined by ELISA assay. (3) Results. (3.1) Placental gene expression: Expression levels of both genes, CYP27B1 (1.17 vs. 1.05 in controls, p = 0.006) and CYP2R1 (2.01 vs. 1.89 in controls, p = 0.039), were significantly higher in preeclamptic placentas than in the control group. Interestingly, VDR expression was significantly lower in placentas from the PE group (1.15 vs. 1.20 in controls, p = 0.030). After dividing all preeclamptic women into subgroups only for the CYP27B1 gene, a significantly higher placental expression in the LOPE subgroup than the healthy controls was observed (padj = 0.038). (3.2) Placental protein expression: The results revealed that protein expression levels of CYP27B1 in the preeclamptic group were similar (5.32 vs. 5.23 in controls, p = 0.530). There was a significant difference in median VDR and CYP2R1 protein levels between studied groups (VDR: 2.56 vs. 3.32 in controls, p < 0.001; CYP2R1: 1.32 vs. 1.43 in controls, p = 0.019). After stratification of preeclamptic women into subgroups, a significant difference was observed only in the VDR protein level. The medians in the LOPE subgroups were significantly lower compared to the healthy control group. In the whole study group, the placental VDR protein level was inversely correlated with systolic and diastolic blood pressure (all p < 0.001), and positively correlated with gestational age (p < 0.001) and infant birth weight (p = 0.014). (4) Conclusions: Lower mRNA and protein expression of VDR in preeclamptic placentas, and also VDR protein expression, could play a pivotal role in preeclampsia development. Additionally, the higher mRNA expression of both CYP27B1 and CYP2R1 hydrolase genes in placentas from preeclamptic women could indicate the compensatory role of these enzymes in preeclampsia etiology. Our results also indicate that placental VDR protein level could be one of the factors modulating blood pressure in pregnant women, as well as influencing gestational age and infant birth weight. Considering the importance of these findings, future studies are warranted.

Preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (pPROM) accounts for nearly half of premature births. Although several risk factors have been identified, no markers allowing for effective prevention have been discovered. In this study, we investigated how the maternal serum levels of galectin-1 and galectin-9 change in patients with pPROM in comparison to uncomplicated pregnancies. A total of 75 patients were enrolled to both study and control group (37 vs. 38, respectively). The serum concentration of galectin-1 and galectin-9 were assayed in duplicate using an enzyme-linked immunoassay. All analyses were performed using PQ Stat v. 1.8.4 software. Galectin-1 levels were significantly higher in the controls (13.32 vs. 14.71 ng/mL, p = 0.02). Galectin-9 levels were similar in both groups (13.31 vs. 14.76 ng/mL, p = 0.30). Lower galectin levels were detected for early pPROM (before 32nd GW) in comparison to late pPROM and the controls (8.85 vs. 14.45 vs. 14.71 ng/mL, p = 0.0004). Similar trend was observed in galectin-9 levels, although no statistical significance was found (11.57 vs. 14.25 vs. 14.76 ng/mL, p = 0.26). Low galectin-1 maternal serum level is associated with the incidence of preterm prelabor rupture of membranes. Galectin-9 maternal serum levels were not significantly correlated with pPROM. However, in order to investigate gal-1 and gal-9 levels as potential, promising markers of pPROM, further clinical studies on larger groups are required.

For the first time in the Polish population, we aimed to investigate associations between the VDR gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) BsmI (rs15444410), ApaI (rs7975232), FokI (rs19735810), and TaqI (rs731236) and the development of preeclampsia (PE). A case–control study surveyed 122 preeclamptic and 184 normotensive pregnant women. The polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was performed to examine the maternal VDR FokI, BsmI, TaqI, and ApaI polymorphisms. The VDR BsmIAA homozygous genotype was statistically significantly more frequent in preeclamptic women compared to the control group (p = 0.0263), which was also associated with a 2-fold increased risk of PE (OR = 2.06, p = 0.012). A correlation between the VDR BsmI polymorphism with systolic and diastolic blood hypertension was noted. Furthermore, 3-marker haplotype CTA (TaqI/ApaI/BsmI) was associated with significantly higher systolic (p = 0.0075) and diastolic (p = 0.0072) blood pressure. Association and haplotype analysis indicated that the VDR BsmI A allele could play a significant role in the PE pathomechanism and hence could be a risk factor for PE development in pregnant Polish women. These results indicate the importance of the VDR BsmI polymorphism and reveal that this variant is closely associated with a higher predisposition to hypertension.

For the first time in the Polish population, we aimed to investigate associations between the VDR gene single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) BsmI (rs15444410), ApaI (rs7975232), FokI (rs19735810), and TaqI (rs731236) and the development of preeclampsia (PE). A case–control study surveyed 122 preeclamptic and 184 normotensive pregnant women. The polymerase chain reaction–restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method was performed to examine the maternal VDR FokI, BsmI, TaqI, and ApaI polymorphisms. The VDR BsmI AA homozygous genotype was statistically significantly more frequent in preeclamptic women compared to the control group (p = 0.0263), which was also associated with a 2-fold increased risk of PE (OR = 2.06, p = 0.012). A correlation between the VDR BsmI polymorphism with systolic and diastolic blood hypertension was noted. Furthermore, 3-marker haplotype CTA (TaqI/ApaI/BsmI) was associated with significantly higher systolic (p = 0.0075) and diastolic (p = 0.0072) blood pressure. Association and haplotype analysis indicated that the VDR BsmI A allele could play a significant role in the PE pathomechanism and hence could be a risk factor for PE development in pregnant Polish women. These results indicate the importance of the VDR BsmI polymorphism and reveal that this variant is closely associated with a higher predisposition to hypertension.

Background Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease that mainly affects premature newborns. Many different factors, increasingly genetic, are involved in the pathogenesis of BPD. Fibronectin is a multi-domain glycoprotein present in nearly all vertebrate tissues and organs. Material and methods The study included 108 infants born between 24 and 32 weeks of gestation. BPD was diagnosed based on the National Institutes of Health Consensus definition. The 5 FN1 gene polymorphisms assessed in the study were the following: rs3796123; rs1968510; rs10202709; rs6725958; and rs35343655.Results BPD developed in 30 (38.5%) out of the 108 preterm infants. Incidence of BPD was higher in infants with lower APGAR scores, low gestational age, and low birthweight. Investigation did not confirm any significant prevelance for BPD development in any genotypes and alleles of FN1. Conclusion Further studies should be performed to confirm the role of genetic factors in etiology and pathogenesis of BPD.

AIM Physiological homocysteine (Hcy) concentrations depend on several factors, both dietary (including folate and choline intake) and biological (such as polymorphism of the genes involved in Hcy metabolism). This study aimed to thus test the associations between genes functionally linked with Hcy metabolism (MTHFR, BHMT and PEMT), folate and choline intakes, and total Hcy (tHcy) concentrations of healthy pregnant women. METHODS One hundred and three healthy Polish women aged 18-44 years, in the third trimester of pregnancy, were enrolled. RESULTS Mean blood tHcy and glutathione (GSH) concentrations were 8.08 ± 3.25 μM and 4.84 ± 1.21 μM, respectively. Concentrations of tHcy were found to be lower in the women who were taking folic acid supplements than in those who did not take these supplements (7.42 ± 1.78 μM vs 9.28 ± 4.42 μM, P

Objectives: To evaluate the role of MTHFR genetic variants in the etiology of intrauterine fetal death in the second part of pregnancy at women from Polish population. Material and methods: A case-control study was performed on a 76 women with a positive history of at least one in- trauterine fetal death after 22 gestational week and 400 healthy controls. The MTHFR genotyping for polymorphic sites 667C > T, 1298A > C, 1793G > A was determined by polymerase chain reaction/restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR/RFLP) method. Results: For 1298A > C polymorphism, no statistically significant higher frequency of AA vs. AC+CC genotype was observed in the IUFD group 67.1 % vs. 55.2% in the control group (OR = 0.61, p = 0.05, pcorr = 0.15). We observed overrepresentation of three-locus haplotype CCG (p = 0.20; pcorr = 0.56) and two-locus haplotype CC (p = 0.17; pcorr = 0.48) in the IUFD group compared to controls. Conclusions: There was no observed relationships in genotype frequency of MTHFR 677C > T and 1793G > A variants, however 1298A > C showed a slightly higher but statistically insignificant prevalence in IUFD compared to the controls in Polish population. Further studies on a larger population are needed.

Intrauterine fetal death (IUFD) is a multifactorial disorder and one of the most severe obstetrical complications. Our primary aim was to study the possible associations between polymorphic variants of the PEMT gene and IUFD in the Polish population.The case-control study involved 76 mothers with IUFD occurrence and 215 mothers of healthy children. Genetic analysis of the four single nucleotide polymorphisms in the PEMT gene (rs4646406, rs4244593, rs897453 and rs12325817) was performed with the PCR/RFLP method.Three oef the analyzed PEMT polymorphisms (rs4646406, rs4244593, and rs8974) were significantly associated with IUFD in the Polish population. Among them, PEMT variant rs4244593 was associated with increased risk of IUFD in three genetic inheritance models. Results were statistically significant even after applying Bonferroni correction for multiple comparisons (p 0.0125). The distribution of all haplotypes except TAGC was not different between cases and controls, however, after applying permutation test, none of the haplotypes showed a relation with IUFD.The present findings indicate that PEMT polymorphisms may be associated with the susceptibility to IUFD in the Polish population.

Objectives: Adequate folate intake constitutes a significant problem in the periconceptional period and early pregnancy but can be achieved by folic acid (FA) supplementation. Low intake of folate may cause numerous negative effects on the pregnancy outcome, including recurrent miscarriage, preeclampsia, fetal hypotrophy, premature delivery, premature placental abruption, and intrauterine fetal death. The aim of the study was to evaluate factors determining FA supplementation in the population of Polish women before and during pregnancy. Material and methods: The study group consisted of 257 women hospitalized postpartum at the Division of Perinatology and Women’s Diseases, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, Poland. We evaluated folic acid intake considering selected demographic data. A structured questionnaire was used to evaluate folic acid intake before and during pregnancy of the investigated women. Results: T he vast majority of the investigated women (89.1%) took FA during pregnancy. During the pre-pregnancy period, a statistically significantly higher supplementation of folic acid was observed among women with the monthly income level of > 5000 PLN (p = 0.03), and among women who planned their pregnancy as compared to women who did not plan their pregnancy (p < 0.001). During pregnancy, these differences disappeared. A statistically significantly higher number of secundi- and multiparas did not take FA during pregnancy as compared to primiparas (p = 0.008). No correlation between cigarette smoking and FA intake was observed. Conclusions: Our analysis showed that FA intake increased (by 36.2%) during pregnancy as compared to the pre-pregnancy period, and depended on income, parity, and pregnancy planning.

(1) Background: there is a steady increase in the number of procedures performed via minimally invasive surgery, which have many benefits, but post-operative nausea and vomiting (PONV) and significant pain are still a common problem (2) Methods: 300 infertile women (18–40 years old) undergoing minimal invasive surgery. Interventions: laparoscopy and hysteroscopy performing, evaluation of postoperative symptoms, serotonin concentrations assessment, identify genetic polymorphisms. (3) Results: serotonin concentrations were significantly lower among women who required opioids (p = 0.006). The presence of the GG genotype in the rs6318 polymorphism of the 5HTR2C gene had a protective effect on PONV (OR = 0.503, C.I. = [0.300–0.841], p = 0.008), when the GG variant of the rs11214763 polymorphism of the 5HTR3B gene, when the risk of PONV was 1.65-fold higher (OR = 1.652, C.I. = [1.003–2.723], p = 0.048). Pain intensity was significantly higher among women with GG genotype of the rs6296 polymorphism of the 5HTR1B gene (OR = 1.660, C.I. = [1.052–2.622], p = 0.029)., (4) Conclusions: the evaluation of serotonin concentration predicts requirement for opioid pain relief medication. The polymorphisms of the serotonin receptors affect the intensity of postoperative complaints.

Introduction: The aim of the study was to evaluate the contribution of genetic variants determining inherited thrombophilia to recurrent miscarriage (RM) in the Polish population. The following polymorphisms were analyzed: 1691G>A , 1328T>C of coagulation factor V, 20210G>A of coagulation factor II, R353Q (11496G>A) of coagulation factor VII, 667C>T , 1298A>C , 1793G>A of MTHFR . Material and methods: A total of 359 women with ≥ 2 subsequent recurrent miscarriages (303 < 13 weeks of gestation (w.g.) and 56 between 13–22 w.g.) and 400 healthy controls were included in the study. Frequency of the genetic polymor­phisms was determined with the PCR/RFLP method. Results: Higher frequency of the 20210GA genotype was found in the RM < 13 w.g. (2.97 vs. 1.50% in controls, OR = 2.01, ns) and the RM 13–22 w.g. (5.36 vs. 1.50% in controls, OR = 3.72, p = 0.09) subgroups. Statistically significantly higher frequency of the 11496GA genotype was noted in controls as compared to the RM 13–22 w.g. subgroup (10.71 vs. 23.00% in controls, OR = 0.40, p = 0.02). Statistically significantly higher frequency of the 1793GA genotype was observed in the RM < 13 w.g. subgroup as compared to controls (12.21 vs. 7.75% in controls, OR = 1.66, p = 0.03). No significant correlations were found as far as the rest of the analyzed polymorphisms are concerned. Conclusions: The obtained results suggest that the 1793G>A MTHFR, R353Q (11496G>A) factor VII gene and the 20210G>A factor II gene polymorphisms play a role in the etiology of RM in the Polish population.

Introduction : Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a chronic lung disease that affects primarily preterm infants. Genetic factors are also taken into consideration in the pathogenesis of BPD. Genetic predispositions to higher production of inflammation mediators seem to be crucial. Material and methods: The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible relationship between polymorphisms: interleukin-1β +3953 C>T, interleukin-6 -174 G>C and -596 G>A, tumour necrosis factor -308 G>A and interleukin-1RN VNTR 86bp and the occurrence of BPD in a population of 100 preterm infants born from singleton pregnancy, before 32+0 weeks of gestation, exposed to antenatal steroids therapy, and without congenital abnormalities. Results : In the study population BPD was diagnosed in 36 (36%) newborns. Among the studied polymorphisms we found the higher prevalence for BPD developing of the following genotypes: 1/2 (OR 1.842 [0.673-5.025] and 2/2 IL-1RN (OR 1.75 [0.418-6.908] 86bpVNTR; GC (2.222 [0.658-8.706]) and CC IL-6 -174G>C (1.6 [0.315-8.314]) and GA (2.753 [0.828-10.64]) and AA (1.5 [0.275-8.067] IL-6 -596G>A), GA 1.509 (0.515-4.301) TNF-α -308G>A. However, these finding were not statistically significant. Conclusions : Genetic factors are undeniably involved in the pathogenesis of BPD. In the times of individualised therapy finding genes responsible for BPD might allow the development of new treatment strategies. A new way of specific therapy could ensure the reduction of complications connected with BPD and treatment costs.

Objectives: Choline and folate metabolism disturbances may be involved in the occurrence of intrauterine fetal death (IUFD). The proper activity of this metabolism could be determined by genetic variants involved in choline pathway e.g. CHKA (gene encoding choline kinase α), PCYT1A (gene encoding CCTα) and CHDH (gene encoding choline dehydrogenase). Our study aimed at determining the genotype and allele frequencies of CHKA rs7928739, PCYT1A rs712012, PCYT1A rs7639752, CHDH rs893363 and CHDH rs2289205 polymorphisms in mothers with IUFD occurrence. Material and methods: The study involved 76 mothers with IUFD occurrence and 215 mothers of healthy children. Genetic analysis was performed with the use of PCR/RFLP method. Results: The frequency of genotypes and alleles of studied polymorphisms was similar in both groups. The study revealed no association of PCYT1A, CHKA and CHDH polymorphisms in analysed groups of women. While evaluating the co-existence of analysed polymorphisms statistically significant correlation was revealed. Co-existence of CHKA rs7928739 AC/CHDH rs2289205 AA genotypes was observed statistically more frequently in the study group than in the control group (p = 0,031). Conclusions: There is no correlation between single CHKA rs7928739, PCYT1A rs712012, PCYT1A rs7639752, CHDH rs893363 and CHDH rs2289205 polymorphisms and the incidence of intrauterine fetal death. However, revealed statistically significant difference between co-existence of CHKA rs7928739 AC/CHDH rs2289205 AA genotypes between study groups suggest the need of further analysis.

Objectives : Preterm delivery (PTD) is one of the important challenges for perinatal medicine due to prematurity and associated complications. The mechanisms leading to the PTD occurrence are not fully clarified and it is assumed that PTD is a complex phenomenon caused by many different pathophysiological factors. Nowadays, an important role is attributed to genetic determinants of PTD, pointing to possible relevance of polymorphic variants of candidate genes to participate in the etiology of PTD. The aim of the study was to assess the relevance of +3953C > T IL-1β and 86 bp VNTR IL-1RN gene polymorphisms in the etiology of PTD in Polish women. Material and methods : Study group consisted of 150 women (mean age 29.2 ± 5.6 years, mean weeks of gestational age 33.7 ± 2.8 gw.) with preterm delivery (22 + 0 – 36 + 6 gw.). To the control group 150 healthy pregnant women (mean age 29.0 ± 3.7 years, mean weeks of gestational age 39.3 ± 1.2 gw.) who delivered > 37 gw. were enrolled. All investigated polymorphisms were analyzed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP). Results : The interesting observation was the notice of overrepresentation of 2/2 genotype of IL-1RN gene in the control group (8.0 vs. 3.3%, p = 0.06) and 2 allele in the control group (25.0 vs . 20.0%, p = 0.07). Conclusions: The +3953C > T polymorphism of IL-1β gene probably is not connected with the risk of preterm delivery. The study results points to the possible modulating effect of mutated IL-1RN* 2 allele ( 86 bp VNTR polymorphism) of IL-1RN gene in decreased risk of preterm delivery.

Objective The aim of the study was assessment of a possible relationship between the polymorphisms of the candidate genes participating in the etiology of some neurological and psychiatric disorders and the risk of depression in perimenopausal and postmenopausal women. Methods A total of 167 (54 perimenopausal and 113 postmenopausal) Caucasian women from western Poland, aged 42–67, were recruited as the patient group in the study because of depressive symptoms, and another 321 healthy women (102 perimenopausal and 219 postmenopausal) served as the controls. All study participants were evaluated for climacteric and depressive disorders according to the Kupperman index and Hamilton rating scale for depression (HRSD), respectively. The following candidate genes were selected for the study: 5HTR2A, 5HTR1B, 5HTR2C, TPH1, TPH2, MAOA, COMT, NET, GABRB1, ESR1, MTHFR, MTR and MTHFD1. In each group the frequencies of the polymorphisms were determined using PCR-RFLP analysis. Results After correcting for Bonferroni multiple tests, we found associations between the MAOA c.1460C > T (SNP 1137070), COMT c.472G > A (SNP 4680), MTHFR c.677C > T (SNP 1801133) and ESR1 454−351 A > G (SNP 9340799) polymorphisms to mild and moderate depressive symptoms in menopausal women. In the perimenopausal and postmenopausal women, genotype association of the MAOA c.1460 CT and c.1460 CT + TT (OR = 1.83; pcorr = 0.009 and OR = 1.85; pcorr = 0.003, resp.), and of the MTHFR c.677 TT and c.677 CT + TT (OR = 3.52; pcorr = 0.00009 and OR = 2.06; pcorr = 0.0006, resp.), as well as of the COMT c.472 GA and COMT c.472 GA + AA genotypes (OR = 2.23; pcorr = 0.03 and OR = 2.17; pcorr = 0.027, resp.) in the postmenopausal women revealed significantly higher frequencies of these variants in depressed female patients than in controls, whereas the ESR1 454−351 AG and 454−351 AG + GG genotypes were associated with lower risk of depression in postmenopausal women (OR = 0.48; pcorr = 0.012, and OR = 0.52; pcorr = 0.015, resp.). Conclusions Our study substantiates the involvement of the MAOA and MTHFR polymorphisms in climacteric depression and offers evidence that the COMT and ESR1 genes may also play a role in the susceptibility to depressive mood in postmenopausal women.

Objectives: The etiology of intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) involves environmental, hormonal and genetic factors. It is thought that ICP may be related to the polymorphic variants of several genes involved in the metabolism and transport of bile acids (BA). The goal of our study was to evaluate the possible role of genetic polymorphic variants of ABC transporters in patients with ICP. Material and methods: 96 women with ICP (mean age of 30.42 years, mean gestational age of 36.83 gestation weeks) and 211 healthy pregnant women (mean age of 30.68 years, mean gestational age of 39.05 gestation weeks) were enrolled in the study. Genetic analysis was performed using a polymerase chain reaction / restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR/RFLP) method. The following polymorphisms were analysed: 1331T > C (V444A) ABCB11 and 1954A > G (R652G) ABCB4. Results: Our analysis of frequency of genotypes and alleles of the 1954A > G ABCB4 polymorphism revealed no significant differences between the ICP and control groups. For the 1331T > C polymorphism of the ABCB11 gene the results revealed a higher frequency of 1331CC genotypes in the ICP group (39.58% vs. 29.38%. OR = 1.57, p = 0.05). Also, the frequency of the 1331C allele was higher in the ICP group compared to the control group (64.06% vs. 55.69%, OR = 1.42, p = 0.03). Conclusions: The overrepresentation of mutated variants of the 1331T > C ABCB11 polymorphism in the ICP group suggests its contribution to the etiology of the intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy. Analysis of genotypes’ co-existence pointed to the possibility of the mutated variants of polymorphism 1954A > G ABCB4 and 1331T > C ABCB11 having a summation effect on the development of ICP.

Objectives: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is one of the main global causes of increased perinatal mortality and fetal and neonatal morbidity. It remains a key challenge for modern perinatal medicine. Negative effects of IUGR are manifested not only in the perinatal period but also at the later stages of life. Proinflammatory cytokines and their polymorphisms are hypothesized to play an important role in IUGR pathomechanisms. The aim of the study was to determine the role of selected polymorphisms (- 238G >A , -308G >A and -376G >A ) of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in the etiology of intrauterine growth restriction. Material and methods: The study included 120 patients with IUGR (mean age 30.32, mean gestational age 36.34 gestational weeks) and 135 healthy pregnant women (mean age 31.63, average week of delivery 38.76). The investigated polymorphisms were determined by PCR/RFLP methods. Results: Higher frequency of TNF-α mutated allele -308A was found in a subgroup of women whose pregnancy en­ded < 37 weeks (18.5 vs . 12.2% in control , OR = 1.63, p = 0.09) and in the subgroup of women with a score ≥ 3 UAS (20.6 vs . 12.2% in control , OR = 1.86, p = 0.06). Heterozygous genotype -308GA was associated with at least 3 times greater risk of three or four abnormalities in uterine arteries score (41.2 vs. 20.0 in control, OR = 2.80, p = 0.01). Conclusions: The obtained results suggest that the - 308G >A TNF-α gene variant may play a role in the etiology of IUGR in the Polish population, but further studies on larger groups are needed

Maternal metabolism during gestation may depend on nutrient intake but also on polymorphism of genes encoding enzymes involved in metabolism of different nutrients. Data on choline or carnitine metabolism in pregnant women are scarce. We hypothesized that (1) choline intake in Polish pregnant women is inadequate and (2) choline and carnitine metabolism would differ by genotype and nutritional status of pregnant women. One hundred three healthy Polish women aged 18 to 44 years in the third trimester of pregnancy were enrolled in the study. The average choline, folate, and carnitine intakes were 365 ± 14 mg/d, 1089 ± 859 μg, and 132 ± 8 mg/d, respectively. Most women did not achieve an adequate intake of choline. Average choline, betaine, trimethylamine oxide, l -carnitine, and acetylcarnitine concentrations were 10.64 ± 3.30 μmol/L, 14.43 ± 4.01 μmol/L, 2.01 ± 1.24 μmol/L, 12.73 ± 5.41 μmol/L, and 6.79 ± 3.82 μmol/L, respectively. Approximately 15% lower betaine concentrations were observed in the GG homozygotes of PEMT rs12325817 and in the GG homozygotes of PCYT1A rs7639752 than in the respective minor allele carriers. Birth weight was higher in the G allele homozygotes of the CHDH rs2289205 than in the minor allele carriers: GG: 3398 ± 64 g; GA+AA: 3193 ± 76 g. Our study shows that choline intake in Polish pregnant women is inadequate and that polymorphisms of PEMT rs12325817 and PCYT1A rs7639752 are associated with betaine but not choline concentrations.

Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the most severe and unpredictable complications of prematurity. There are two possible mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of NEC: individual inflammatory response and impaired blood flow in mesenteric vessels with secondary ischemia of the intestine. The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible relationship between polymorphisms: Il-1β 3953C>T, Il-6 −174G>C and −596G>A, TNFα −308G>A, and 86 bp variable number tandem repeat polymorphism of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (Il-1RN VNTR 86 bp) and three polymorphisms that may participate in arteries tension regulation and in consequence in intestine blood flow impairment: eNOS (894G>T and −786T>C) and END-1 (5665G>T) and NEC in 100 infants born from singleton pregnancy, before 32 + 0 weeks of gestation, exposed to antenatal steroids therapy, and without congenital abnormalities. In study population, 22 (22%) newborns developed NEC. Surgery-requiring NEC was present in 7 children. Statistical analysis showed 20-fold higher prevalence of NEC in infants with the genotype TT [OR 20 (3.71–208.7); p = 0.0004] of eNOS 894G>T gene polymorphism. There was a higher prevalence of allele C carriers of eNOS 786T>C in patients with surgery-requiring NEC [OR 4.881 (1.33–21.99); p = 0.013]. Our investigation did not confirm any significant prevalence for NEC development in another studied genotypes/alleles. This study confirms the significant role of polymorphisms that play role in intestine blood flow. Identifying gene variants that increase the risk for NEC development may be useful in screening infants with inherent vulnerability and creating strategies for individualized care. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s11010-017-3135-5) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Background Congenital thrombophilia is associated with an increased intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) risk among newborns, but it may also play a protective role. The role of genetic polymorphisms involved in the coagulation pathway of IVH pathogenesis is probably a consequence of an increased risk of thrombosis in the fine blood vessels in the germinal matrix region. Material and methods The aim of this study was to evaluate the possible relationship between Factor V (FV) 1691G>A, Factor II (FII) 20210G>A mutations and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) 677C>T; 1298A>C and Factor XIII (FXIII) 103G>T gene polymorphisms and the occurrence of IVH in 100 infants born from 24 + 0 to 32 + 0 weeks of gestation, born from singleton pregnancy, before 32 + 0 weeks of gestation, exposed to antenatal steroid therapy, and without congenital abnormalities. Results IVH developed 45 (45%) infants, including 15 (33.33%) diagnosed with IVH stage I, 20 (42.22%) with stage II, 8 (17.77%) with stage III, and 3 (6.66%) with stage IV. Analysis showed a prevalence 4.5 times higher of IVH stages II to IV in infants with the genotype CC (OR 4511 (1147–17.75); p = 0.026) of MTHFR 1298A>C gene polymorphism. Our investigation did not confirm any significant prevalence of IVH development in other studied mutations/polymorphisms. Conclusions This study confirmed that the MTHFR 1298A>C polymorphism is associated with the risk of IVH. IVH is a significant problem for preterm infants. In addition to little progress in preventing IVH in preterm babies, substantial research that is focused on understanding the etiology, mechanism, and risk factors for IVH is imperative. In the era of personalized medicine, identification of genetic risk factors creates opportunities to generate preventative strategies. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00381-017-3460-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Introduction Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a significant morbidity seen in very low birth weight infants. Genes related to inflammation may be risk factors for IVH. Material and methods We examined five polymorphisms for an association with IVH in 100 preterm infants born from singleton pregnancy, before 32 + 0 weeks of gestation, exposed to antenatal steroid therapy, and without congenital abnormalities. These polymorphisms include interleukin-1β 3953 C>T, interleukin-6 −174G>C and −596G>A, tumor necrosis factor −308 G>A, and 86 bp variable number tandem repeat polymorphism of interleukin-1 receptor antagonist (Il -1RN 86 bp VNTR). Results In our study population, 45 (45%) infants developed IVH, including 15 (33.33%) with stage 1, 19 (42.22%) with stage 2, 8 (17.77%) with stage 3, and 3 (6.66%) with stage 4. In contrast to the previously published data, the prevalence of IVH did not vary between infants with different IL-6 and TNFα alleles and genotypes. Our novel investigations in Il-1 +3953 C>T and Il-1RN 86 bp VNTR polymorphism did not show any significant link between those alleles or genotypes and IVH. Conclusions IVH is a significant problem for preterm infants. In addition to little progress in preventing IVH in preterm babies, substantial research that are focused on understanding the etiology, mechanism and risk factors for IVH are imperative. In the era of personalized medicine, identification of genetic risk factors creates opportunities to generate preventative strategies. Further studies should be performed to confirm the role of genetic factors in etiology and pathogenesis of IVH. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s00381-017-3458-2) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

In the pathogenesis of neonatal intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) in preterm infants, an important role is played by changes in venous and arterial cerebral flows. It has been shown that the ability of autoregulation of cerebral flows in response to variations in arterial blood pressure in preterm infants is impaired. This impaired autoregulation causes an increased risk of germinal matrix rupture and IVH occurrence. We examined three polymorphisms of genes, related to regulation of blood flow, for an association with IVH in 100 preterm infants born from singleton pregnancy, before 32 + 0 weeks of gestation, exposed to antenatal steroids therapy, and without congenital abnormalities. These polymorphisms include: eNOS (894G > T and −786T > C) and EDN1 (5665G > T ) gene. We found that infants with genotype GT eNOS 894G > T have 3.4-fold higher risk developing of IVH born before 28 + 6 weeks of gestation. Our investigation did not confirm any significant prevalence for IVH development according to eNOS −786T > C genes polymorphism. Our novel investigations in EDN1 5665G > T polymorphism did not show any link between alleles or genotypes and IVH. Future investigations of polymorphisms in blood-flow associated genes may provide valuable insight into the pathogenetic mechanisms underlying the development of IVH.

Background: Polymorphisms which are presented below may be the cause of inherited thrombophilia and may result in pregnancy loss. The hypothesis is based on a number of cardiology studies which have confirmed the involvement of these polymorphisms in thrombotic incidents. Objectives: To evaluate the role of polymorphisms of factor VII gene ( Arg353Gln, -122T > C ) and PAI-1 gene ( -675 4G/5G ) in the etiology of recurrent miscarriage. Material and methods: The study group included 152 women with a positive history of ≥ 2 consecutive pregnancy losses (114 and 38 women with 2 and ≥ 3 miscarriages, respectively), while 180 healthy women were recruited as controls. Genetic analysis was performed with the use of PCR/RFLP. Results: Lower frequency of Arg353/Gln353 was observed in women with 2 and ≥ 3 miscarriages as compared to controls (21.1% vs. 23.9% and 13.2% vs. 23.9%, respectively). The frequency of Gln353 was lower in women with ≥ 3 miscarriages as compared to controls (6.6% vs. 11.9%, p = ns). The frequency of -122TT was higher in women with ≥ 3 miscarriages as compared to controls (86.84% vs. 76.67%, p = ns), whereas -122TC was more frequent in controls (13.16% vs. 22.78% in controls, p = ns). The frequency of -122T was higher in patients with ≥ 3 abortions as compared to controls (93.42% vs. 88.06%, p = ns), and -122C was observed more frequently in controls (6.58% vs. 11.94% in controls, p = ns). There were no significant differences as far as the -675 4G/5G polymorphism was concerned . Conclusions: The obtained results suggest a possible protective role of Gln353 and -122C alleles in recurrent miscarriage.

Objectives: Recurrent miscarriage (RM) is one of the most common obstetric complications. Numerous studies have suggested that genetic variants leading to an impaired balance between coagulation and fibrinolysis may contribute to elevated risk of pregnancy loss. The aim of the study was to investigate a possible association between angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE, rs1799752) I/D and plasminogen activator inhibitor type 1 (PAI-1, rs1799768) 4G/5G polymorphisms with RM among Polish women. Material and methods: DNA was extracted from peripheral blood samples of 152 women with a history of ≥ 2 consecutive pregnancy losses before 22 weeks of gestation, and 180 healthy controls with at least 1 live birth at term and no history of pregnancy loss. Polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) were used to identify the polymorphisms. Results: No statistically significant differences were found in genotype and allele frequencies of the studied polymorphisms. The most relevant difference between the study group and controls was found for the ID genotype distribution of the ACE gene (52.6 vs. 46.7%, OR = 1.27, p = 0.28). The analysis of genotype coexistence revealed a higher incidence of the combination of the ACE II and the PAI-1 4G/4G genotypes in the control group (10.0 vs. 5.9% in control group; p = 0.17). Conclusions: The obtained results suggest no apparent association between the ACE I/D, PAI-1 4G/5G polymorphisms and increased RM susceptibility in the analyzed Polish population.

Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the frequency of the 677C>T and 1298A>C polymorphisms of the methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene, as well as the coexistence of both these genetic variants in women from the Polish population. Material and methods: A total of 662 women from the Polish population were enrolled in the study group. The frequency of the investigated genotypes of the 677C>T and 1298A>C polymorphisms of the MTHFR gene was analyzed with the use of PCR/RFLP methods. Results: The frequency of the 677CC, 677CT and 677TT genotypes in the studied population of women was 50.60%, 39.88% and 9.52%, respectively. As to the 1298AA, 1298AC and 1298CC genotypes, the obtained results were as follows: 42.75%, 47.88% and 9.37%, respectively (Tables II and III). Simultaneous analysis revealed the most frequent coexistence of 677CC/1298AC (28.85%), 677CT/1298AA (20.85%) and 677CT/1298AC (19.03%) genotypes. The coexistence of 677CC/1298AA (12.39%), 677CC/1298CC (9.37%) and 677TT/1298AA (9.51%) genotypes was observed less frequently. In the studied population of Polish women, the coexistence of 677CT/1298CC, 677TT/1298AC and 677TT/1298CC genotypes has been not observed. Conclusions: The frequency and coexistence of genotypes of the 677C>T and 1298A>C MTHFR gene polymorphisms in the studied population of Polish women is similar to other North-European populations. Women carriers of the mutated variants of both, 677C>T and 1298A>C polymorphisms of the MTHFR gene should receive special perinatal care in order to prevent fetal defects and thrombosis-related complications during pregnancy. It is vital to emphasize the significance of proper education of folate supplementation, especially in pregnant patients and women of reproductive age.

Introduction: Nowadays the strong genetic background of preterm delivery (PTD) in connection with immune answer has been indicated. The purpose of the study was the assessment of frequency of TNF-α -238G>A, -308G>A, -376G>A gene polymorphisms in the etiology of preterm delivery. Material and methods: The study group consisted of 150 women with PTD (22+0 - 36+6 gw.), the controls of 150 women who delivered at term (>37 gw.). PTD group was divided into subgroups: a/ delivery between 22-28 gw., b/ 28-32 gw., and c/ 32-36+6 gw. Genetic analysis was performed by PCR/RLFP method. Results: Overrepresentation of -238GA genotype (12.7 vs. 4.7%, p=0.011) and -238A allele (7.7 vs. 2.3%, p=0,002) in PTD group has been observed. In PTD 28-32 gw. subgroup, higher frequency of -238GA genotype (31.6 vs. 4,7%, p=0.00095), and mutated -238A allele (21.1 vs. 2.3%, p=0.00004) was noted. Moreover in PTD 28-32 gw. subgroup we have noted higher presence of heterozygous -376GA genotype (10.5 vs. 1,3%, p=0,063) and mutated -376A allele (5.3 vs. 0,7%, p=0.064). Analysis of TNF-α polymorphisms co-occurrence showed statistically significant overrepresentation of genotypes containing mutated -238A allele in PTD group (-238GA/-308GG/-376GG: 8.0 vs. 2,7%, p=0.035). Haplotype analysis revealed statistically significant difference between PTD and controls in the incidence of -376G/-308G/-238A haplotype containing mutated -238A allele (0.063067 vs. 0.016634, p=0.030).Conclusion: The study indicated the strong association of mutated -238A allele of TNF-α gene with increased risk of PTD. Analysis of genotypes and alleles prevalence in PTD women divided according to gestational age suggests the possible role of mutated variants of -238G>A and -376G>A TNF-α polymorphisms in Polish women delivering between 28 and 32 gw.

Introduction: Recent reports have suggested an association between genetic polymorphisms of dopamine receptors and the development of an increased risk of chronic hypertension, as well as preeclampsia (PE). Objectives: The aim of the study was to evaluate the impact of the -48A>G DRD1 and -521C>T DRD4 polymorphisms in the etiology of PE among Polish women. Material and methods: Ninety-eight preeclamptic women and 120 healthy pregnant controls were enrolled in the study. The investigated polymorphisms of the DRD1 and DRD4 genes were identified using PCR/RFLP methods. Results: As far as the -48A>G DRD1 polymorphism is concerned, the mutated -48GG genotype was more often found in controls (14.2% ) than in the PE group (10.2%, ns), and the subgroup with severe PE (8.2%). Also, the frequency of the mutated -48G allele was higher in controls (39.6%) than in the PE group (33.2%, ns), and in the subgroup with severe PE (31.6%, ns). As for the -521C>T DRD4 polymorphism, a similar occurrence of the mutated -521TT genotype and the -521T allele in all of the investigate groups was observed. Lower serum concentrations of total protein (5.59 g/L and 5.57 g/L vs. 6.17 g/L in carriers of the -521CC genotype, p=0.02) were noted in patients with the mutated homozygous -521TT genotype and heterozygous -521CT genotype of DRD4. Conclusions: The obtained results suggest a possible protective role of the mutated -48G DRD1 allele in the etiology of preeclampsia, especially its severe form. The presence of the mutated -521T DRD4 allele could influence the decrease of total blood protein in preeclamptic patients. The observed frequency of dopamine DRD1 and DRD4 polymorphisms is similar to the distribution of these variants in other Caucasian populations.