[306-POS]: Pregnancy and magnesium

Objectives To review the role of magnesium in pregnancy. Methods Analysis of published reports with emphasis on recent work on cellular mechanisms and magnesium responsive genes (MgRGs), plus controlled trials of magnesium (Mg) supplementation to prevent gestational hypertension. Results In a study on women with normal pregnancies, MgRGs were up regulated as compared to non-pregnant women, suggesting a higher Mg demand. They also had lower plasma levels of Mg and an increased urinary excretion of Mg. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure increases during pregnancy were related to the urinary excretion of Mg. Among women with PE, the expression of the MgRG SLC41A1 – a Na/Mg exchanger – was overexpressed in 54.2% of the placentas as compared to 9.5% in normal placentas. Brain and muscle levels of Mg were lower among women with PE. In three supplementation studies, Mg reduced the occurrence of gestational hypertension, particularly the diastolic blood pressure. Conclusions Data from genetic, cellular, and clinical studies support a conclusion that Mg plays an important role in pregnancy and that Mg deficiency could be a major factor for the pathogenesis in complicated pregnancies. It is unlikely that Mg is the sole agent involved and other nutritional factors are probably also of importance. Further studies are needed to assess the relationship with Mg and formulate requirements for intervention programs. Disclosures R. Rylander: None.