Urinary Podocyte Excretion as a Diagnostic Marker for Preeclampsia

Reference #:

2007-091

Inventors/Contributors

Vesna D. Garovic, M.D.

Description

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific disease characterized by hypertension and occurrence of protein in the urine. It affects 5% of all pregnancies and remains a leading cause of mother and child morbidity and mortality worldwide. There are currently no diagnostic tests for the early diagnosis of this condition. We have shown that the urinary excretion of kidney cells, also known as podocytes, is a sensitive and specific marker of preeclampsia.

Patent Status

Pending