Measurement of human placental lactogen (hPL) Version 1.0
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Measurement of human placental lactogen (hPL) in the identification of compromised pregnancies.
IRAS ID
131199
Contact name
Alexander E P Heazell
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Manchester
Research summary
Stillbirth affects approximately 4,000 births each year in the UK, and this rate has not significantly decreased over the past two decades. The causes of stillbirth are complex, but placental dysfunction is thought to be one factor. Placental dysfunction is difficult to evaluate using current testing and management protocols, as there is no single laboratory or clinical test that can be used.
It has been found that women with reduced fetal movements (RFM) are at greater risk of stillbirth and placental dysfunction, compared to women with healthy uncomplicated pregnancies. Studies have suggested that fetal growth restriction (FGR) may also be a factor in RFM. Human placental lactogen (hPL) and placental growth factor (PlGF) have been identified as placental markers that could be used to predict pregnancy outcome. However, the best fluid for measurement of these markers has yet to be determined.Current assays for the measurement of human placental lactogen (hPL) will be evaluated and the appropriate sample type from serum, plasma and urine investigated. Samples will be collected from a cohort study where women with reduced fetal moments will be compared with women who have known placental deficiency and women with healthy uncomplicated pregnancies. In addition, hPL will be compared against placental growth factor (PlGF) as a marker of placental dysfunction.
REC name
West Midlands - Solihull Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
13/WM/0288
Date of REC Opinion
15 Jul 2013
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion