Placenta growth factor (PIGF) is a member of the VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) sub-family – a key molecule in angiogenesis and vasculogenesis, in particular during embryogenesis. The main source of PIGF during pregnancy is the placental trophoblast. PIGF is also expressed in many other tissues, including the villous trophoblast. PIGF-expression within human atherosclerotic lesions is associated with plaque inflammation and neovascular growth. In both early and late onset preeclampsia, maternal serum levels of sFlt-1 are higher and PIGF lower in women presenting with preeclampsia.