Transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) in plasma is associated with preeclampsia risk in Peruvian women with systemic inflammation

BACKGROUND: In a case-control study of 100 preeclamptics and 100 controls, we assessed plasma transforming growth factor-beta1 (TGF-beta1) concentrations in relation to preeclampsia risk among Peruvian women with and without systemic inflammation. METHODS: Logistic regression was used to estimate odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: The OR of preeclampsia increased across quartiles of TGF-beta1 concentrations. Women with elevated TGF-beta1 and a proinflammatory profile experienced the highest risk of preeclampsia (OR = 15.4, 95% CI 4.7-50.4). CONCLUSIONS: Our results confirm an association between TGF-beta1 and risk of preeclampsia and extend the literature by indicating a strong association in women with systemic inflammation.