# Genetic Polymorphisms of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor and Their Impact on Recurrent Spontaneous Miscarriage in Saudi Women

## TL;DR

This study examines how genetic variations in the VEGF gene affect the risk of recurrent miscarriage in Saudi women.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific VEGF gene polymorphisms associated with increased risk of recurrent spontaneous miscarriage in Saudi women.

## Key findings

- VEGF polymorphisms rs2010963, rs3025053, and rs699947 are significantly linked to increased miscarriage risk.
- VEGF serum levels were significantly lower in women with recurrent miscarriage compared to controls.
- No significant association was found for rs10434, rs833061, and rs25648 with RSM.

## Abstract

Recurrent spontaneous miscarriage (RSM) is defined as the loss of three or more clinically recognized pregnancies before 20 weeks of gestation. Angiogenesis, a crucial process in early pregnancy, is regulated by vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), a protein that plays a pivotal role in successful pregnancy. Disruptions in vascular development, such as those due to variations in VEGF gene expression, may contribute to infertility and pregnancy complications. Therefore, there is a need for more studies that show the effect of VEGF on RSM. This study investigated the impact of VEGF gene polymorphisms on RSM in Saudi women. Blood samples were collected from 200 Saudi women (100 cases with RSM and 100 controls). DNA was extracted from the buffy coat and analyzed for VEGF polymorphisms (rs10434, rs3025053, rs699947, rs2010963, rs833061, and rs25648) using TaqMan Real-Time PCR. Plasma VEGF levels were measured using the Human VEGF ELISA Kit. There was no significant association between rs10434, rs833061, and rs25648 and RSM. However, rs2010963, rs3025053, and rs699947 were significantly associated with an increased risk of miscarriage (p < 0.05). Furthermore, VEGF concentrations were significantly lower in the RSM case group (both pregnant and non-pregnant) compared to the control group (p < 0.05). VEGF polymorphisms, along with reduced VEGF serum levels, are associated with an increased risk of RSM in Saudi women. Further studies are needed to explore the underlying mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.