How Did Genetics Identify the GDF15 Gene as Important in Driving Hyperemesis Gravidarum?

Genetics provided great insight into hyperemesis gravidarum by flagging the GDF15 gene as really important in driving the condition. The GDF15 gene is now a developing target for therapeutics and the discovery suggests prior understanding of causes for hyperemesis gravidarum was not correct.

For a long time people thought HCG caused nausea and vomiting of pregnancy. Researchers studied folks who had hyperemesis gravidarum and found a signal at the GDF15 gene. Women who experience hyperemesis gravidarum in a first pregnancy often experience hyperemesis gravidarum in all pregnancies. Less than one percent of folks require hospitalization for hyperemesis gravidarum with IV hydration and even IV nutrition. The biggest risk of hyperemesis gravidarum is dehydration and lack of nutrition for the mother since the fetus takes what the fetus needs from the mother.