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Pregnancy outcome affected by immune system genes

A study by Ashley Moffett's team found that specific interactions between maternal cells and fetal trophoblasts play a key role in determining successful pregnancy. The presence of certain maternal immune system genes provides protection against recurrent miscarriage, preeclampsia, and fetal growth restriction.

SourceJCI Journals·JournalJournal of Clinical Investigation·DateOct 25, 2010

Antidepressants in pregnancy increase risk of miscarriage

A new study published in CMAJ found a significant association between antidepressant use during pregnancy and an increased risk of miscarriage. The study, which analyzed data from over 5,000 women, found that selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) were associated with a higher risk of miscarriage, particularly at higher doses.

SourceCanadian Medical Association Journal·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateMay 31, 2010

Stellar still births

Researchers at the University of Bonn discover brown dwarfs must be treated as a separate class due to their unique mass distribution and 'mating behaviour'. This reclassification challenges current understanding of stellar formation and population dynamics.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalMonthly Notices of the Royal Astronomical Society·DateAug 22, 2008

Couples with fertility problems where the man is over 35 have increased difficulty in conceiving

A recent study by Dr. Stéphanie Belloc found that men over 35 have a negative impact on pregnancy rates and increase miscarriage risks in women undergoing intrauterine inseminations (IUIs). This marks the first time a strong paternal effect has been shown, contradicting previous assumptions about the role of the father in fertility.

Scientists align billion-year-old protein with embryonic heart defects

Researchers found that a critical protein called Serum Response Factor (SRF) is essential for the development of heart cells, and its absence can lead to improper heart function. The study provides new insights into how genetic mutations may disrupt heart function and potentially cause adult cardiovascular disease.

SourceUniversity of Rochester Medical Center·JournalProceedings of the National Academy of Sciences·DateDec 8, 2004

Study suggests possible clue to miscarriage

A study found that women who experienced miscarriage had lower concentrations of macrophage inhibitory cytokine-1 compared to those who delivered normally. Low MIC1 levels often preceded miscarriage, suggesting its potential as a predictor and therapeutic target for pregnancy loss prevention.

SourceThe Lancet_DELETED·JournalThe Lancet·DateJan 8, 2004

Costly tests unnecessary for some miscarriages, University of Pittsburgh geneticist says

A recent study by W. Allen Hogge, M.D., found that nearly 56% of miscarriages are caused by chromosomal abnormalities, with higher rates among women over 35. The study recommends regular karyotyping tests after the second loss and more advanced testing only when no genetic abnormality is found.

SourceUniversity of Pittsburgh Medical Center·JournalAmerican Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology·DateJan 27, 2003

Oral diabetes drug shows promise in preventing miscarriage in common infertility disorder

A study suggests that metformin, an oral diabetes drug, reduces the risk of miscarriage in women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Researchers found that 8.8% of pregnancies treated with metformin ended in miscarriage, compared to 41.9% in those not receiving the medication.

SourceNIH/Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development·JournalThe Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism·DateFeb 27, 2002