Generation of decidua specific decorin knockout mice.

Dysfunctions of the placenta leads to a serious pregnancy associated disease of the mother called preeclampsia (PE) and certain forms of fetal growth restriction (FGR) that are hard to treat or prevent. Our laboratory has shown that overproduction of decorin, a molecule made by the pregnant uterus, leads to placental defects resulting in PE and FGR. We found that elevated decorin levels in the maternal blood can predict PE before clinical signs appear. My research is to create a mouse model of preeclampsia in which the uterus over-produces decorin. This model will help us to develop drugs that can prevent the appearance of PE in susceptible mothers and possibly FGR. This knowledge is fundamental to understanding the origin of PE and FGR that can be exploited to improve maternal and fetal health.

Faculty Supervisor:

Peeyush Lala

Student:

Partner:

Wayne State University

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Health and Related Sciences & Technology; Biotechnology; Other

University:

Western University

Program: