Figure 6.

Summary of FKBPL and CD44 changes throughout gestation in pregnancies complicated by preeclampsia. In early embryogenesis a loose connection of chorionic projections, the apposition, implants into the endometrium allowing for the subsequent development of the placenta. Trophoblast cells (in red) migrate from the chorionic villi and start the process of spiral uterine artery remodeling replacing endothelial cells (in purple). FKBPL and CD44 levels starts to decrease and increase, respectively, at the beginning of the second trimester as a result of continuous hypoxia and likely compensatory pro-angiogenesis in pregnant women who proceed to develop preeclampsia. Toward the end of the second trimester or the beginning of the third trimester, the levels start to change in the opposite direction, likely just before the onset of preeclampsia indicating anti-angiogenic state. MSC therapy can then be employed to restore the angiogenic balance and treat preeclampsia.