Simranvir Kaur, University of Utah
Life Sciences
The placenta is the major source of fetal serotonin during pregnancy, which is essential for fetal brain development. In Utah, approximately 13% of pregnant women take Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors (SSRIs) to treat depression, the use of which has been correlated to significantly lower serotonin levels in cord blood for newborns. Studies suggest association between maternal SSRI use and adverse outcomes such as preterm birth, cognitive deficit, and disruption of serotonergic systems. However the effect of SSRIs on placental gene expression, serotonin synthesis and transport in the placenta, is not known. This study evaluates the impact of maternal SSRI use on placental gene expression and levels of serotonin in the cord blood using a nested case-control observational study model. Biological samples will be collected until 20 cases (women taking SSRIs during pregnancy) and 20 appropriately matched controls have been enrolled into the study. Participants also complete an online questionnaire to measure depression and anxiety levels as well as document any medication they have taken during pregnancy. Data and sample collection for this study is still in progress. Once enough samples have been collected for batch analysis, we will complete RT-PCR and ELISA, expected in Spring 2015. Upon complete data analysis, we expect this study will help in targeting mothers who are at risk for adverse pregnancy outcomes and further provide suggestions for intervention.