Potential of Splicing Factor as a Target for Preeclampsia Treatment
Recent research uncovers the role of the splicing factor SRSF5 in preeclampsia development, offering promising new targets for therapy to improve maternal and fetal health outcomes.
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication characterized by high blood pressure, organ damage, and inadequate blood flow to the fetus. The only definitive cure currently is delivery, but early intervention remains a challenge. Recent research exploring the molecular mechanisms behind preeclampsia has identified a promising target: the splicing factor SRSF5.
A study published in The FASEB Journal investigated the role of SRSF5 in the development of preeclampsia. Using bioinformatics and experimental models, researchers observed that SRSF5 was significantly upregulated in placental tissues from women with preeclampsia. Elevated SRSF5 affects the alternative splicing of the pre-mRNA of MLX, a transcription factor, resulting in a longer, more stable form of MLX. This abnormal MLX interacts with NR2F2, a critical regulator in placental vascular and immune functions, suppressing its activity and leading to placental cell death.
In vivo tests on a mouse model demonstrated that high levels of SRSF5 correlated with preeclampsia-like symptoms, including high blood pressure and proteinuria. Conversely, reducing SRSF5 levels improved placental function and lowered maternal blood pressure. These findings suggest that SRSF5 plays a pivotal role in preeclampsia pathogenesis.
The implications of this research are significant, as targeting SRSF5 or the splicing process could open new therapeutic avenues. Unlike current treatments that only mitigate symptoms, drugs designed to modulate SRSF5 activity may address the root causes of preeclampsia, improving outcomes for mothers and their babies.
This groundbreaking study highlights the importance of molecular research in understanding complex pregnancy disorders and paves the way for potential targeted therapies in the future.
Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-10-splicing-factor-therapeutic-preeclampsia.html
Stay Updated with Mia's Feed
Get the latest health & wellness insights delivered straight to your inbox.
Related Articles
How APOL1 Mutations Impact Mitochondrial Function in Kidney Disease Revealed by Organoid Models
New research using kidney organoids uncovers how APOL1 gene mutations impair mitochondrial function, shedding light on mechanisms behind genetic kidney disease and opening doors for targeted therapies.
Fire Smoke Exposure Can Impact the Immune System in Healthy People
New research reveals that fire smoke can alter the immune system in healthy individuals, emphasizing the importance of protective measures and policy changes to reduce health risks from wildfires.
Innovative Brain Tumor Gene Expression Database Accelerates Treatment Discovery
A groundbreaking genomic atlas of nervous system tumors offers new insights into tumor classification and potential targeted therapies, accelerating research and treatment development for brain and nerve cancers.
Continued Use of Antiseizure Medications During Pregnancy Despite Risks
A recent study highlights the ongoing use of antiseizure medications during pregnancy, with some drugs posing known or uncertain risks to fetal development. The research calls for better management and awareness, especially among socioeconomically disadvantaged populations.