UKZN PhD Graduate Uncovers Genetic Links to Preeclampsia in South African Women

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Dr Annelene Govindsamy has graduated with a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Optics and Imaging from the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), contributing ground-breaking research into the genetic drivers of preeclampsia among South African women of African ancestry.

Supervised by Dr Shoohana Singh, her study, ‘Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms of RAAS-Associated Genes in Preeclamptic Women of African Ancestry,’ explored how genetic variation influences the development of hypertension in pregnancy, particularly in women affected by both preeclampsia and HIV.

Preeclampsia and HIV remain highly prevalent in South Africa, and their co-occurrence presents significant risks for maternal and infant health. Govindsamy’s research focused on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS), a key regulator of blood pressure, and examined how specific genetic variations may predispose women to hypertension during pregnancy.

Analysing 319 women, the study investigated genetic polymorphisms in three key genes, namely Renin (REN), (Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme (ACE), and Angiotensinogen (AGT) alongside immune and inflammatory markers. The findings revealed significant associations between certain ACE and AGT gene variants and an increased risk of hypertension in preeclamptic women.

Notably, the ACE gene variant showed both protective and risk effects depending on the genetic profile, while specific AGT gene variants were strongly associated with a higher risk of hypertension, particularly among HIV-positive women. These findings highlight how genetic differences may influence disease risk in this population.

In addition to genetic insights, the study also examined biological markers linked to inflammation and immune response. Elevated levels of tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-a) were observed in women with preeclampsia, regardless of HIV status, reinforcing the role of inflammation in the condition.

“The findings illuminate the complex interaction between genetic factors, immune activation, and hypertension in preeclampsia,” said Govindsamy. “This work provides a deeper understanding of the disease and opens avenues for more targeted approaches to managing high-risk pregnancies.”

Importantly, the research suggests that both genetic background and environmental factors may influence how RAAS-related proteins function, offering broader implications for personalised healthcare in diverse populations.

Reflecting on her achievement, Govindsamy expressed pride and gratitude. “I am elated and feel honoured. This journey was challenging but ultimately worthwhile,” she said.

Her passion for the field was driven by a longstanding interest in immunology, which began during her undergraduate studies in Microbiology and Biochemistry. Growing up in Chatsworth, Durban, she was fascinated by the microscopic world and later transitioned into health research to explore the human immune system in greater depth.

Govindsamy credits her faith and family as central to her success. “My greatest support was the Holy Spirit and my family, who motivated me to persevere through difficult times,” she shared.

Despite the demands of doctoral research, she remained grounded through prayer and personal reflection.

Outside of academia, she enjoys creative writing, cooking, and watching Netflix series.

Words: MaryAnn Francis

Photograph: Sethu Dlamini