Research method
The pilot study, co-authored by Professor Manu Vatish, Dr Ana Sofia Cerdeira, and Professor Tim James from the Nuffield Department of Women’s & Reproductive Health, used a specialised blood-filtering device designed to reduce circulating sFlt-1 without introducing a drug into the mother’s bloodstream.
sFlt-1, a protein produced by the placenta, is a key biological driver known to contribute to the development of preeclampsia. The research team developed an antibody-based adsorption column that selectively removes sFlt-1 from circulating blood during apheresis, a procedure in which plasma is filtered and returned to the patient.
The work was first assessed in pregnant baboons and healthy volunteers before being studied in women with very preterm preeclampsia. Across the pilot trial, the treatment reduced circulating sFlt-1 levels, was generally well tolerated, and was associated with reductions in blood pressure.
The significance of the study
Preeclampsia is a serious pregnancy complication marked by high blood pressure and other signs of organ stress, and it can become life-threatening for both mother and baby. In very preterm cases, the condition often worsens quickly, and early delivery is frequently the only definitive treatment.
Read the full story on the Nuffield Department of Women's & Reproductive Health website.