Modulation of oxidative stress and angiogenic pathways by natural compounds in experimental preeclampsia: A narrative review focusing on MDA, sFlt-1, and PlGF

Objective: To synthesize current evidence on the effects of natural compounds on oxidative stress and angiogenic biomarkers, particularly malondialdehyde (MDA), soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 (sFlt-1), and placental growth factor (PlGF), in experimental models of preeclampsia. Materials and Methods: A narrative review was conducted of studies retrieved from PubMed, Scopus, ScienceDirect, and Web of Science (2016-2026). Experimental animal studies that evaluated natural compounds and reported outcomes related to MDA, sFlt-1, PlGF, or angiogenic pathways were included. Study quality was assessed descriptively using the Joanna Briggs Institute framework. Results: Radix, and olive leaf extract. Most interventions significantly reduced MDA and sFlt-1 levels, indicating reductions in oxidative stress and anti-angiogenic activity. Several compounds increased expression of PlGF and/or vascular endothelial growth factor, suggesting improved placental angiogenesis. Beneficial effects on placental morphology, blood pressure, proteinuria, and fetal outcomes were also reported. Conclusion: Natural compounds may ameliorate oxidative stress and angiogenic imbalance in experimental models of preeclampsia by reducing MDA and sFlt-1 levels and enhancing PlGF-mediated angiogenesis. These findings support their potential as adjunctive therapies for preeclampsia, although further mechanistic studies and clinical trials are needed to confirm their efficacy and safety. As this narrative review is based exclusively on findings from experimental animal models, these results should be interpreted with caution and not be directly extrapolated to clinical practice until they are confirmed by human studies.