Maternal Gene Delivery for the Prevention and Treatment of Obstetric Conditions

Purpose of Review: There is an urgent unmet clinical need for effective therapies for obstetric complications such as fetal growth restriction, pre-eclampsia and preterm birth. These global health conditions have long term consequences for the health of survivors and the families affected, as well as societal and economic implications. Despite decades of research, prevention and treatment options are limited and often demonstrate suboptimal efficacy. Thus, cutting-edge approaches, such as gene delivery, may offer a novel solution. With the advancement of prenatal gene therapy preclinical research for the treatment of inherited diseases, the safe delivery of these technologies in utero is becoming a reality. Recent Findings: We will give insights into the current preclinical research specifically relating to maternal gene delivery to improve the outcomes of pregnancy-related conditions. Summary: Obstetric disorders lack effective prevention and treatment options. Innovative approaches, such as gene transfer, may provide a promising alternative. This review summarises potential gene therapies in preclinical development for fetal growth restriction, pre-eclampsia and preterm birth.