Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic auto-immune disorder, of which persistent synovitis, bone erosions and auto-antibody formation are characteristic features. Although the etiology of the disease... Show moreRheumatoid arthritis is a chronic auto-immune disorder, of which persistent synovitis, bone erosions and auto-antibody formation are characteristic features. Although the etiology of the disease remains largely unknown, it is established that genetic risk factors play a pivotal role in disease pathology. Both family and twin studies have shown that the genetic contribution to the disease can be estimated around 50%. In the current thesis the genetic contribution of non-HLA genes to RA susceptibility was further investigated and the functional relevance of these loci was explored. The studies described were able to establish several previously identified risk factors in a statistical robust manner. Also novel genetic risk factors that are associated with RA susceptibility could be identified, as well as risk factors that are conferred to specific subgroups of the disease. Show less
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific condition that originates in the placenta. Despite decades of research, its pathogenesis remains largely unknown. However, several risk factors for preeclampsia... Show morePreeclampsia is a pregnancy-specific condition that originates in the placenta. Despite decades of research, its pathogenesis remains largely unknown. However, several risk factors for preeclampsia have been identified, including a (family) history of preeclampsia, autoimmune disease and conditions associated with endothelial damage, including hypertension, diabetes mellitus and preexistent renal disease. This thesis aims to further investigate through which mechanisms these risk factors increase the risk for preeclampsia. It deals with both the genetic background of preeclampsia, as well as the role of complement activation in its pathogenesis. Finally, it touches upon the role of angiogenic factors in the development of preeclampsia. Show less
