International study links hormone (GDF15) to developing pregnancy sickness

In an international study helped by Generation Scotland volunteers, a hormone called GDF15 has been linked to developing pregnancy sickness.

This is a debilitating condition that can affects as many as 70% of women during pregnancy. This research has helped uncover potential causes and treatments for this condition. The researchers want to thank Generation Scotland volunteers for helping with this important research!

Research Summary

Generation Scotland volunteers have helped with this international research study looking at pregnancy sickness. 

This research linked levels of a hormone called GDF15 to pregnancy sickness. GDF15 is always made in the body, both pre- and during pregnancy to regulate damage to organs within the body. However, it was found that the level of this hormone in the body and a mother's sensitivity to it, may cause the condition. 

Analysis of GDF15 in Generation Scotland volunteers helped with this study, to show genetic links between GDF15 levels and an extreme form of pregnancy sickness called hyperemesis gravidarum. This was done via blood sample analysis from a group of Generation Scotland volunteers who visited a clinic.

For example, women with a condition that means they have abnormally high levels of GDF15 (called β-thalassaemia) have a lower risk of having pregnancy sickness, showing that GDF15 can have a protective effect in preventing sickness. However, women with lower levels of GDF15 have a higher risk of developing the condition. These observations have highlighted a potential treatment option of exposing women to low levels of GDF15 pre-pregnancy to make them less susceptible to the condition. Researchers have shown this strategy has helped prevent pregnancy sickness in mice.

 

This research has been featured in the BBC and The Guardian!

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Hormone linked to morning sickness
In an international study helped by Generation Scotland volunteers, a protein called GDF15 has been linked to developing pregnancy sickness. Analysis of GDF15 in GS volunteers helped show how it normally affects the general population.
Researchers have found that the hormone may cause nausea and vomiting in pregnancy, depending on how much of the hormone is made, and how sensitive the mother is to it. This international research could help prevent and treat pregnancy sickness, which affects as many as 70% of women during pregnancy.

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