Preeclampsia is a potentially life-threatening pregnancy complication that can lead to increased risk of cardiovascular disease later in life. According to a study published in the Journal of Maternal, Fetal and Neonatal Medicine, levels of soluble TRAIL (tumor necrosis factor related apoptosis-inducing lipid) are lower in women who suffer from preeclampsia. Low levels of soluble TRAIL has been associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease in non-pregnant patients, based on previous studies. Researchers also found a correlation between high levels of C-reactive protein and risk of cardiovascular disease, in previous studies. Researchers recorded higher C-reactive protein levels in women with preeclampsia.

Ninety-three women with no pregnancy complications were compared to 52 women with preeclampsia. When test results between the two study groups were compared, tests on women with preeclampsia consistently showed lower soluble TRAIL and higher C-reactive protein levels.

Source: Chaemsaithong P, Chaiworapongsa T, Romero R, Korzeniewski SJ, Stampalija T, Than NG, Dong Z, Miranda J, Yeo L, Hassan SS. Maternal Plasma Soluble TRAIL is Decreased in Preeclampsia. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med. 2013 May 20.

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