Identification of genes for normalization of real-time RT-PCR data in placental tissues from intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy

The selection of suitable reference genes is crucial for proper interpretation of RT-qPCR data. To date, a systematic screening for reference genes in placental tissues from intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP) is missing. Eighteen candidate reference genes were investigated to determine their applicability by descriptive statistics and published algorithms. HPRT1, YWHAZ and PUM1 were found to be the most stable genes and could be used for normalization in gene expression study of placentas from ICP. The combination of HPRT1 and YWHAZ is sufficient and the use of all three genes should be recommended for an improved reliability of normalization. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.