As a proteoglycan secreted from endothelial cells, expression, and secretion of endocan increases in the endothelium of several tissues secondary to inflammation. It can be regarded as an indicator of endothelial damage. Besides, it is both a target and a modulator of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) signaling pathway. Considering its action mechanisms, it can provide information about angiogenesis, inflammation, and vascular permeability.

It is known that intrauterine growth retardation mainly occurs as a result of endothelial dysfunction and abnormal angiogenesis in the placenta. In previous studies, maternal serum endocan levels have also been shown to be increased in cases of preeclampsia, which is mainly characterized by placental dysfunction.So, we hypothesize that there may be an association between endocan levels and intrauterine growth retardation.

Endocan is a proteoglycan that is closely associated with inflammation. Its levels increase in association with the severity of endothelial damage. Endothelial dysfunction and abnormal angiogenesis in the placental tissues are the main pathophysiological mechanisms leading to intrauterine growth retardation.

It has been known that there was a significant association between maternal serum levels of endocan and preeclampsia. In cases with preeclampsia, increased serum levels of endocan in maternal blood samples has been reported.

Intrauterine growth retardation is a situation in which endothelial dysfunction and abnormal angiogenesis are the leading disturbances. In fetuses with intrauterine growth retardation, a hypoxic environment secondary to uteroplacental insufficiency. In previous studies, increased levels of endocan in maternal blood samples have been shown. Although maternal blood can be a good reflector of situations both in fetuses and their mothers, measurement of endocan in umbilical cord blood samples may better represent the pathology in fetuses.

Inclusion Criteria:

For "intrauterine growth retardation" group:

• consent to participate study
• detection of intrauterine growth retardation during follow up of pregnancy

For "healthy fetuses" group:

• consent to participate study
• absence of intrauterine growth retardation during follow up of pregnancy

Exclusion Criteria:

• multiple pregnancy
• presence of major developmental anomalies of fetuses
• detection of chromosomal anomalies
• malnourished mothers
• vegetarian diet of mothers
• use of cigarette and alcohol during pregnancy
• previous history of stillbirths

female pregnants

Pregnant females attending outpatient clinics of obstetrics in a tertiary hospital.

Medical data of the participants are going o be shared if it is requested.