Investigation of the Rs722503 Polymorphism in the FLT1 Gene and Its Association with Preeclampsia Susceptibility in the East Azerbaijan Province, Iran.

Background: Genetic predisposition plays a crucial role in the development of preeclampsia, with the FLT1 gene implicated in angiogenesis and endothelial dysfunction, both central to the disease's pathophysiology. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the rs722503 polymorphism of the FLT1 gene and susceptibility to preeclampsia in pregnant women in East Azerbaijan Province, Iran. Method: In this case-control study, 24 fetal cord blood samples from pregnant women, including 13 with preeclampsia and 11 healthy controls, were recruited from healthcare centers in East Azerbaijan Province. Genomic DNA was extracted from blood samples, and the rs722503 polymorphism in the FLT1 gene was analyzed using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR products were then subjected to electrophoresis to observe the desired polymorphism. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the association between the rs722503 polymorphism and preeclampsia risk. Results: A significant association was found between the rs722503 polymorphism of the FLT1 gene and the risk of preeclampsia. Women with the TT genotype had a higher risk of developing preeclampsia compared to those with the CC genotype (P-value < 0.05). The frequency of the T allele was also significantly higher in the preeclampsia group compared to controls. Conclusion: The rs722503 polymorphism of the FLT1 gene may be a genetic risk factor for preeclampsia in the population of East Azerbaijan Province. These findings could contribute to early identification of at-risk individuals and potential development of targeted therapeutic strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]