Marlena Fejzo, a geneticist, experienced severe nausea and vomiting during her pregnancy, leading her to investigate the underlying cause of her condition, hyperemesis gravidarum. This debilitating condition affects around 1-3% of pregnant women and is characterized by persistent nausea and vomiting that can lead to dehydration, weight loss, and other complications.
Fejzo’s personal experience with hyperemesis gravidarum motivated her to delve deeper into the topic. She made it her life’s work to identify the root cause of this condition and find ways to treat it effectively. Her research led her to investigate how genetics may play a role in hyperemesis gravidarum.
Through her work, Fejzo found that there may be a genetic component to hyperemesis gravidarum. Specifically, she discovered that a gene called GDF15 may be involved in the development of this condition. GDF15 is known to play a role in regulating appetite and nausea, and Fejzo’s research suggests that certain variants of this gene may make some women more susceptible to hyperemesis gravidarum.
Fejzo’s findings have significant implications for both pregnant women and medical professionals. By understanding the genetic underpinnings of hyperemesis gravidarum, doctors may be able to develop more effective treatments for this condition. Additionally, pregnant women who are at higher risk for hyperemesis gravidarum could potentially be identified through genetic testing or screening.
Fejzo’s dedication to understanding hyperemesis gravidarum has not gone unnoticed. She has received numerous accolades for her work, including the prestigious March of Dimes’ Agnes Higgins Award in 2015. In addition to her research, Fejzo also advocates for better awareness and treatment of hyperemesis gravidarum. She was instrumental in the creation of the Hyperemesis Education and Research Foundation, an organization dedicated to supporting those affected by this condition.
Despite the progress made in understanding hyperemesis gravidarum, much work remains to be done. Fejzo’s ongoing research continues to shed light on the genetic and environmental factors that contribute to this condition. With her dedication and perseverance, there is hope that one day hyperemesis gravidarum can be effectively treated or even prevented altogether.
