Susceptibility to preeclampsia is associated with a 50-bp insertion/deletion polymorphism at the promoter region of the SOD1 gene

OBJECTIVE: There is much evidence that oxidative stress is involved in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia (PE). A 50 bp insertion/deletion (Ins/Del) functional polymorphism in the promoter region of SOD1 has been reported. Due to a total lack of data, the aim of this study was to investigate the association between the SOD1 (Ins/Del) polymorphism and the risk of PE. MATERIAL AND METHODS: The current hospital-based case-control study included a total of 172 preeclamptic and 171 non-preeclamptic pregnancies. Genotyping was performed using the polymerase chain reaction method. RESULTS: Statistical analysis revealed that the Del/Del genotype significantly correlated with susceptibility to PE [odds ratio (OR): 6.53, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.43-29.7, p=0.015]. Since maternal body mass index, family history of PE in first degree relatives, and educational levels were statistically associated with the susceptibility to PE, further analyses were carried out in order to estimate the adjusted ORs. After adjustment for aforementioned variables, the Del/Del genotype increased the risk of PE (OR: 5.98, 95% CI: 1.21-29.5, p=0.028). CONCLUSION: The 50 bp Ins/Del in promoter region of the SOD1 gene could be an intriguing susceptibility factor for developing preeclampsia in Iranian Caucasians.