PlGFsFlt1

PlGFsFlt1 refers to the regulatory axis involving placental growth factor (PlGF) and soluble FLT-1 (sFlt-1). PlGF is a member of the VEGF family, primarily expressed in the placenta, and promotes angiogenesis through interactions with VEGF receptors, notably VEGFR-1 (Flt-1). PlGF exists in several isoforms, including PlGF-1 and PlGF-2, and contributes to placental vascular development and maternal adaptation to pregnancy. sFlt-1 is a soluble splice variant of the FLT1 gene that acts as a decoy receptor by binding VEGF-A, VEGF-B, and PlGF, thereby dampening angiogenic signaling.

The balance between PlGF and sFlt-1 is an important indicator of angiogenic status in pregnancy. Elevated levels of sFlt-1 or reduced levels of PlGF create an anti-angiogenic state, which is associated with placental dysfunction and complications such as preeclampsia and fetal growth restriction. The PlGF to sFlt-1 ratio, as well as absolute concentrations of each factor, are used as biomarkers in research and, in some clinical settings, to assess risk or onset of obstetric disorders.

Measurement and clinical relevance: PlGF and sFlt-1 are commonly quantified in maternal blood using immunoassays like ELISA. Ratios derived from these measurements aid in risk stratification for preeclampsia and related placental pathologies, contributing to decisions about monitoring and management in pregnancy.

Research and therapeutic context: ongoing studies explore the PlGF–sFlt-1 axis to understand placental biology, refine predictive models for obstetric complications, and identify potential therapeutic strategies that modulate angiogenic balance.