Prediction of preterm delivery using levels of vascular endothelial growth factor and leptin in amniotic fluid from the second trimester

Purpose Impaired angiogenesis of the developing placenta in the early pregnancy is one etiology of preterm delivery. Vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) is a key regulator of normal angiogenesis. Leptin stimulates other angiogenic factors, including VEGF. In this study, we aimed to investigate whether levels of VEGF and leptin in amniotic fluid during the second trimester could serve as markers for preterm delivery.