The HER Foundation is thrilled to have the groundbreaking research on hyperemesis gravidarum (HG) and pregnancy sickness shortlisted for the Falling Walls Science Breakthrough of the Year 2024 title in the Life Sciences category. Dr. Marlena Fejzo’s work has earned a spot among the top ten projects competing for this prestigious title.
Breaking the Wall of Pregnancy Sickness
Dr. Marlena Fejzo and Dr. Stephen O’Rahilly have made significant strides in understanding Hyperemesis Gravidarum (HG), a severe and often life-threatening form of pregnancy sickness. Their research has uncovered genetic factors and the critical role of the hormone GDF15 in HG, paving the way for new prevention and treatment strategies.
Highlights from Dr. Fejzo’s interview: Falling Walls Science Breakthrough of the Year
Dr. Fejzo shared key insights about her work and its impact:
- Research goals: Dr. Fejzo’s primary aim is to uncover the cause of HG through a genetic approach, identify biomarkers for better prediction and diagnosis, and develop more effective treatments. Her work has already led to the identification of GDF15 as a major genetic factor in HG. There are ongoing efforts to translate these findings into real-world solutions.
- Personal motivation: Dr. Fejzo’s passion for this research stems from her own devastating experience with HG, which resulted in the loss of her baby. Her determination to prove that HG is not just “in women’s heads” has driven her to uncover its biological basis.
- Advice to aspiring scientists: Dr. Fejzo emphasizes the importance of perseverance and passion in research. This is especially true in fields that have historically been overlooked, such as female health. She encourages young scientists to stay committed to their chosen path, no matter how long it takes to see results.
- Impact on society: This research empowers women with scientific evidence that HG is a real, biological condition, not something they are imagining. The findings offer hope for more effective treatments in the near future.
- A surprising discovery: Dr. Fejzo discovered that one of the genes associated with HG is linked to a behavior in octopuses known as the maternal death spiral. This finding highlights the deep evolutionary roots of this condition.
- Most exciting moment: The confirmation of the association between GDF15 and HG in her study participants was a defining moment for Dr. Fejzo. This affirmed that her years of dedication were leading to groundbreaking discoveries.
This research is not just a scientific milestone—it’s a potential lifeline for countless individuals suffering from HG. The HER Foundation is proud to support this vital work and remains hopeful that these breakthroughs will soon lead to better care and outcomes for women worldwide.
LEARN MORE
- Genetics and GDF15 Hormone FAQ.
- From HG Loss to HG Discovery.
- The cause of HG has been found, and it’s not hCG!
- Dr. Marlena Fejzo honored as one of Forbes 50 over 50!
- TIME 100 Health – Dr. Marlena Fejzo.
- Dr. Marlena Fejzo named one of TIME Women of the Year.
