The Role of LNPEP and ANPEP Gene Polymorphisms in the Pathogenesis of Pre-eclampsia

Abstract Objective The exact role of renin angiotensin system (RAS) in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia, a pregnancy specific disorder has not been established. Gene polymorphisms, however, have been implicated in the pathophysiology. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the association of the Angiotensin IV receptor and aminopeptidase-N in the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia. Study Design Stored blood samples of 637 South African women of African ancestry were utilized. The study population was divided into controls (n = 280) and pre-eclampsia (n = 357). Pre-eclampsia was sub-divided into early (n = 187) and late (n = 170) onset subtypes. DNA was extracted from whole blood and genotyped. Odds ratio and 95% confidence intervals were used to assess the association. Results The allele and genotype frequencies of the angiotensin receptor IV and aminopeptidase-N showed no significant difference between the control versus the pre-eclampsia groups. Similarly, allele and genotype distributions of the control group versus the subtypes of pre-eclampsia (early onset and late onset pre-eclampsia) showed no significant differences. Conclusion The single nucleotide polymorphisms of angiotensin IV receptor (rs18059) and aminopeptidase-N (rs6496603) are not associated with the pathogenesis of pre-eclampsia in women of African ancestry.