Understanding the role of genetics in premature birth

Why is this study needed?

About 10% of babies worldwide are born preterm (before 37 weeks of pregnancy), which often means they need specialised care. Researchers have discovered specific genetic factors linked to preterm birth, but we still don't know why some women are more likely to experience it than others.

Most of the current genetic data is from people of European ancestry, so our study aims to study the entire population to identify which genetic factors, especially among different ethnic groups, are connected to preterm birth. We will use a technology called Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to do this. Our goal is to improve the prediction and understanding of preterm birth to reduce health complications for both mothers and babies.

How will this study help?

Our researchers want to find out which genetic factors in people from different ethnic backgrounds are linked to premature birth, using a technology called Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS). We hope that our study can help us better predict and understand preterm birth, so that health complications can be avoided and reduced.

A genome is the body’s ‘instruction manual’ and contains all the information needed to make you, run you and repair you. It is unique to you, and you inherit it from your parents.

Researchers have found specific genetic factors are related to preterm birth, but we still do not fully understand the causes of preterm birth and why some people are more likely to have a preterm birth compared to others. Additionally, most of the genetic data we have comes from people of European ancestry. To get a complete picture, we need to collect genetic data from people of diverse ethnic backgrounds. This will help us understand preterm birth better and develop more effective ways to prevent it for everyone.

This study is supported by Tommy's National Centre for Preterm Birth Research and Genomics England Limited.

Who is eligible for this study?

We are recruiting mothers and birthing people from those attending or staying at participating hospitals (see list below) during pregnancy with a history of premature birth or following a current premature birth. We will also shortly be inviting all mothers and birthing people who have previously experienced a spontaneous preterm birth at the hospitals listed to participate in this study.

The following study sites are currently active and recruiting participants:

  • Barts Health NHS Trust - The Royal London Hospital
  • Birmingham Women's and Children's NHS Foundation Trust - Birmingham Women's Hospital
  • Hillingdon Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust - Hillingdon Hospital
  • Imperial College Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust - Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital and St Mary's Hospital
  • Leeds Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust
  • Liverpool Women's NHS Foundation Trust
  • Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust - St Mary's Hospital
  • Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust - John Radcliffe Hospital
  • Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust - Royal Berkshire Hospital
  • Royal Free London NHS Foundation Trust - Royal Free Hospital and Barnet Hospital
  • The Shrewsbury & Telford Hospital NHS Trust - Princess Royal Hospital Telford
  • University College London Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
  • University Hospitals Bristol and Weston NHS Foundation Trust
  • University Hospitals Coventry & Warwickshire NHS Trust 

We are specifically looking for those who experienced a natural preterm birth (spontaneous preterm birth) or a preterm birth after the water around the baby broke naturally, rather than a preterm birth that was medically induced (iatrogenic preterm birth). Participants will be asked to provide a small blood sample (about 3ml, less than one teaspoon) from their arm and share information about their pregnancy and birth. Our researchers will use a technique called Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to study the genetic factors related to preterm birth.

How can I contribute?

Participants will need to provide a small blood sample (about 3ml, which is less than a teaspoon) from their arm and share some information about their pregnancy and birth. The entire process will take less than 30 minutes.

For more information, please visit the link and complete the self-referral form to express your interest in the study.