Preeclampsia

New Biomarkers Could Help Predict, Treat Preeclampsia

Researchers have discovered 2 novel biomarkers that could lead to earlier diagnosis of preeclampsia and change the way the condition is managed.1

In order to investigate the potential of the angiogenesis markers FKBPL and CD44 in the prediction of preeclampsia, the researchers measured plasma or placental concentrations of the markers in women pre- and post-diagnosis, as well as in healthy controls. Trophoblast and endothelial cell function were also assessed.

Overall, the researchers observed that the CD44/FKBPL ratio was reduced in both placental and plasma samples following the diagnosis of preeclampsia, and that a high plasma CD44/FKBPL ratio at 20 weeks’ gestation was associated with a 2.5-fold increased risk of developing the condition (odds ratio 2.5, 95% CI 1.12-5.41, p=0.02). In patients with high mean arterial blood pressure, this risk increased to 3.9-fold (95% CI 1.30-11.84, p=0.016).

“The biomarkers allow the prediction of irregular placenta or maternal vascular function, which are key underlying causes of preeclampsia,” said study author Lana McClements, MPharm, PhD, in an accompanying press release. "This could lead to the early diagnosis and prevention of severe preeclampsia and associated complications including death, therefore also giving insight into disease mechanisms and possible treatment targets.”2

“In addition to their use in diagnosis, FKBPL and CD44 also show potential as drug and cell therapy targets of emerging treatments for preeclampsia, which offers hope for a future cure to this terrible disorder."

—Michael Potts

References:

  1. Todd N, McNally R, Alqudah A, et al. Role of a novel angiogenesis FKBPL-CD44 pathway in preeclampsia risk stratification and mesenchymal stem cell treatment. Published online July 3, 2020. JCEM. Doi:10.1210/clinem/dgaa403
  2. Novel biomarker discovery could lead to early diagnosis for deadly preeclampsia. News release. Sydney, Australia: University of Technology, Sydney; July 3, 2020. https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2020-07/uots-nbd070220.php