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Placenta growth factor: potential role in pregnancy.
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Tennessee Graduate School of Medicine, Knoxville, USA.
Summary
Placenta growth factor (PIGF) is crucial for placental vascular development. Aberrant PIGF production by trophoblast may lead to pregnancy complications and placental pathologies.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Vascular Biology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Adequate vascularity is essential for placentation.
- Trophoblast regulation of angiogenic growth factors is poorly understood.
- Placenta growth factor (PIGF) is an angiogenic factor primarily expressed by trophoblast.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the literature on PIGF expression, regulation, and function.
- To explore PIGF's role in angiogenesis at the maternal-fetal interface.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of PIGF.
- Emphasis on expression, regulation, and function.
Main Results:
- PIGF is abundantly expressed by trophoblast, suggesting paracrine modulation of vascular development.
- Trophoblast expression of the PIGF receptor (flt-1) indicates a potential autocrine role.
- PIGF may influence vascular development and trophoblast function.
Conclusions:
- PIGF influences both vascular endothelial cells and trophoblast.
- Abnormal PIGF production by trophoblast may compromise gestation.
- Dysregulated PIGF may contribute to obstetric vascular and placental pathologies.