Study of Endothelial Extracellular Vesicles as Markers of Blood Vessel Activation in Pregnant Women with Hypertensive Pregnancy Disorders

What this Trial Is About

This research focuses on pregnant women to better understand hypertensive disorders of pregnancy, such as gestational hypertension and preeclampsia, which are linked to blood vessel dysfunction and increased risks for both mother and baby. The study compares levels of endothelial extracellular vesicles EEVs, which are small particles that may indicate blood vessel activation, between women with normal blood pressure and those with these hypertensive disorders. It also examines how EEV levels relate to blood pressure and measures of blood vessel function. Participants include pregnant women with either normal blood pressure or diagnosed hypertensive disorders following clinical guidelines. The study observes these groups without administering treatments, collecting blood samples and assessing blood vessel function using laser Doppler flowmetry. Both groups are evaluated at baseline to measure EEV concentrations and other blood markers related to endothelial activation. During the study, participants will undergo blood tests and non-invasive measurements of blood vessel responses to assess endothelial function. Researchers will analyze markers such as VCAM-1, ICAM-1, Endocan, von Willebrand factor, and MMP-9 alongside EEV levels. The main outcome is the plasma concentration of EEVs. This observational study is planned to run from April 2026 through September 2029, with continuous monitoring of participant data to improve early detection and monitoring of hypertensive pregnancy disorders.

Endothelial Extracellular Vesicles as Biomarkers of Endothelial Activation in Pregnant Women With Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy