Glycosylated fibronectin as a biomarker for preeclampsia and preeclampsia-related complications

Objectives: To evaluate glycosylated fibronectin (GlyFn) as a novel biomarker for preeclampsia and preeclampsia-related complications, and to compare GlyFn to traditional biomarkers, including soluble Fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1) and placental growth factor (PlGF). Study Design: Secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study (n = 524) with suspected preeclampsia (control), gestational hypertension (GH), or confirmed preeclampsia/hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes and low platelets syndrome (PE/HELLP). Main outcome Measures: GlyFn levels in PE/HELLP versus control and GH. Its association with preeclampsia-related complications, and its added value on top of a traditional model incorporating gestational age, proteinuria, parity, and blood pressure. A comparison of all GlyFn-related performances versus those of sFlt-1 and PlGF. Results: A significant elevation in GlyFn levels in patients with GH and PE/HELLP was observed versus control. Notably, GlyFn displayed positive correlations with sFlt-1 and the sFlt-1/PlGF ratio, and a negative correlation with PlGF. GlyFn alone outperformed the traditional model in predicting maternal but not fetal complications. This pattern was also observed for sFlt-1, PlGF and their ratio. Combining GlyFn with the traditional model, enhanced the C-index for maternal complications. However, the GlyFn/PlGF ratio, when added to the traditional model, yielded the best results for predicting fetal complications in the overall cohort. In women with a GA < 37 weeks, the latter combination also showed the best predictive value for predicting maternal complications. Conclusions: GlyFn is a novel biomarker for PE diagnosis and its complications, particularly at GA < 37 weeks. Prospective studies should evaluate to what degree it outperforms traditional biomarkers.