Role of growth factors in the development of placental failure and pre-eclampsia

The role of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) and placental lactogen (PG) in the development of placental failure and preeclampsia was studied in order to develop measures for early prevention of prenatal morbidity and mortality. A total of 102 pregnant women were examined, distributed into 4 groups. Group 1 (n=30) were patients with placental failure, median age 33±3 years. Group 2 (n=30) included patients with moderate pre-eclampsia, median age 33±5 years. Group 3 (n=10) were patients with placental failure and pre-eclampsia, median age 33±2 years. Group 4 (reference group; n=32) were pregnant patients without above conditions, median age 34±5 years. Serum IGF-1 and PL were measured in all women at weeks 20-30, in addition to standard examinations. The level of IGF-1 increased in normal pregnancy with its prolongation. Its levels were lower in groups 1 and 2. In group 3 IGF-1 levels were lower than in control and higher than in groups 1 and 2; this fact could indicate reduction of the compensatory potential. The concentration of PL was normal in normal gestation, higher than normally in pre-eclampsia, and lower in placental failure. Hence, changed levels of IGF-1 and PL could indicate early disorders in the fetoplacental function, which suggested early drug correction of metabolic disorders in order to reduce perinatal mortality.