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…
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Using genetics, the HER Foundation, led by Marlena Fejzo, PhD., found the cause of HG is related to the nausea and vomiting hormone GDF15. Our newest study is pending publication and was featured in New Scientist.
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Overall, this study contributes to our understanding of the biology of nausea and vomiting in pregnancy and may lead to future research evaluating new treatment avenues. Of note, drugs targeting the GDF15 pathway have shown great promise in mitigating weight loss, loss of appetite, and vomiting in animal models and are currently in clinical trials in cancer cachexia, a disease with similar symptoms to HG.
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In 2023, we will continue our support of families across the globe, continue our groundbreaking research, advocate to change policy to improve maternal and fetal outcomes, and launch an exciting new education program!
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Dr. Marlena Fejzo, geneticist and HER’s Research Advisor and member of the Board of Directors, was featured in the Inverse article, “When morning sickness kills: doctors have dismissed hyperemesis gravidarum for decades, but new research could undo this harmful legacy.”
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HER Board members, Marlena Fejzo, PhD, and Patrick Mullen, MD, are running the first study of GDF15 in HG patients in the United States.
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