Research led by the University of Toronto in Canada shows Placental Growth Factor (PlGF), a biomarker used to detect early signs of preeclampsia, can also be used in women with sickle cell disease who are at high risk of this pregnancy complication.

PlGF is widely used as a biomarker for preeclampsia because it reflects the balance of blood vessel growth promoting molecules in the body critical for healthy placental development and function during pregnancy. Normally, low levels of PlGF in pregnancy signify an increased risk for preeclampsia, but this is complicated in people with sickle cell who have abnormally high amounts of this biomarker.

Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder characterized by abnormally shaped red blood cells. These cells can lead to blockages and signi

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