ANGIOGENIC IMBALANCES IN THE PATHOGENESIS OF PREGNANCY COMPLICATIONS

Endothelial cell proliferation and survival require continuous low levels of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF). The bioavailability of this angiogenic factor appears to be regulated by anti-angiogenic factors, including the soluble form of VEGF receptor 1 (sFlt-1) in the non-pregnant and pregnant states. During pregnancy a VEGF antagonist (sFlt-1) and other anti-angiogenic factors, including soluble endoglin (s-Eng), are produced by the human placenta and released into the maternal circulation; an excess of these anti-angiogenic factors can lead into angiogenic imbalances and pregnancy complications. This is important because regulation of VEGF action on angiogenic balances appears to be essential for a successful pregnancy.