Polymorphism in the glutathione S-transferase P1 gene and risk for preeclampsia

Objective: To determine whether genetic variability in biotransformation en zymes contributes to individual differences in susceptibility to preeclamps ia or the syndrome of hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets (HELLP). Methods: Polymorphisms in the genes of glutathione S-transferases and cytoc hrome P-450 1A1 were assessed by polymerase chain reaction in 170 nonpregna nt women with a history of preeclampsia, 90 of whom had HELLP syndrome, and 109 healthy control women with an uncomplicated obstetric history. chi(2) analysis was used for statistical evaluation of differences in polymorphism rates. Results: A higher frequency of the glutathione S-transferase P1b-1b genotyp e was observed in preeclamptic women than in controls (14% in preeclampsia and 5% in controls; odds ratio 3.4, 95% confidence interval 1.2, 10.6, P =. 02). Genetic polymorphisms in other glutathione S-transferases and cytochro me P-450 1A1 genes occurred equally frequently in cases and controls. In wo men with a history of preeclampsia, there were no differences in the occurr ence of the genetic polymorphisms investigated in women who either did or d id not develop the HELLP syndrome. Conclusion: Women with the glutathione S-transferase P1b-1b genotype, which could result in lower glutathione S-transferase detoxification capacity, m ight have higher susceptibility to preeclampsia. However, polymorphisms in glutathione S-transferase genes do not seem to be a risk factor for develop ment of the HELLP syndrome. (Obstet Gynecol 2000;96:50-4. (C) 2000 by The A merican College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.).