Introduction CD93 plays a crucial role in endothelial homeostasis and angiogenesis. Recently its role in hypertension has been investigated, holding promise for novel targeted diagnostic and therapeutic strategies.Aim We assessed for the first time differences in first trimester serum CD93 levels in women who lately developed preeclampsia (PE) vs. normotensive pregnancy (NP).Methods First trimester serum CD93 concentrations were assessed in a multicenter cohort of 83 women (34 PE and 49 NP) by ELISA Immunoassay.Results Serum CD93 was lower in women who developed PE vs. NP (111.8 +/- 24.4 vs. 137.5 +/- 22.3 ng/ml; p < 0.001). Serum CD93 was associated with a decreased risk of developing PE (OR 0.950, 95% CI 0.922-0.978) and composite neonatal outcome (OR 0.952, CI 0.923-0.982), after adjustment for confounders.Conclusions PE is accompanied by decreased serum CD93 levels. CD93 might play a role during placentation leading to defective angiogenesis, vascular dysfunction, and PE development.
