THE PROGINS VARIANT OF THE PGR GENE AND PLACENTAL ENDOCRINE FUNCTION AT RISK OF PRETERM LABOR: A PILOT STUDY

Progesterone receptors, which are encoded by the PGR gene, mediate the main physiological effects of progesterone – the hormone that is required for a successful pregnancy. The PROGINS variant is one of the most common variants of the PGR gene. Due to genetic heterogeneity, the presence of inferior forms of progesterone receptors in women can be a clinical problem. In addition to fertility problems, such women may theoretically respond differently to progesterone replacement therapy.Aim of the study to determine the effect of the PROGINS variant of the PGR gene on the hormonal status and results of progesterone deficiency treatment in pregnant women at risk of preterm labor.Material and methods. The main group included 30 pregnant women with progesterone deficiency and the threat of preterm labor, and the comparison group included 30 pregnant women with a normal course of pregnancy. The concentrations of progesterone, estradiol, and placental lactogen were measured in the pregnant women of both groups. Genotyping was assayed by PCR.Results. The genotypic frequencies of the PROGINS variant were not significantlydifferent between the main and comparison groups. Pregnant patients in the main group with the T2T2 genotype after treatment had significantly lower progesterone levels compared to patients with the T1T1 and T1T2 genotypes. Pregnant women in the main group with the T2T2 genotype delivered at a shorter gestational age.Conclusion. The results of our study showed the associations between the PROGINS variant of the PGR gene and the inefficacy of progesterone deficiency treatment in pregnant women at risk of preterm birth and shortened gestation.