Serum Follistatin-like-3 was elevated in second trimester of pregnant women who subsequently developed preeclampsia

Abstract

Objective: To determine whether serum Follistatin-like-3 was enhanced in second trimester of pregnant women who subsequently developed preeclampsia. Methods: Thirty-nine pregnant women subsequently developed preeclampsia and 73 normal pregnancy women were included. Serum samples taken in 24–28 weeks gestation were used for assay of Follistatin-like-3. Results: Follistatin-like-3 was significantly elevated in preeclampsia group compared with control. However, there was no significant difference of Follistatin-like-3 in women with mild or severe preeclampsia. Conclusion: The elevation of Follistatin-like-3 was demonstrated in late second trimester of pregnancy destined to developing preeclampsia, suggesting its causal role in the pathogenesis and prediction of preeclampsia.