Determining the mechanisms implicated in the development of preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-associated disease where women develop high blood pressure and protein in their urine. It is the leading cause of mother and foetus mortality and morbidity. However, we have yet to identify its specific cause as well as methods for early detection and prevention. Women who have high-blood pressure are more at risk of developing preeclampsia. We have characterized a mouse model which has the same symptoms as women who suffer from high blood pressure and go on to develop preeclampsia when they become pregnant. In addition, our recent data suggests a new molecule that could be implicated in this disease. As such, we wish to further investigate these mechanisms and determine if it may be used as a therapeutic target using our animal model. This would have important clinical impact as there is no effective treatment for this disease a part from early delivery.

Faculty Supervisor:

Julie Lavoie

Student:

Partner:

University of Tehran

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Education

University:

Université de Montréal

Program: