2007), we found significant elevations in mean arterial pressure in response to placental ischemia in pregnant rats that was associated with an approximate threefold increase in circulating levels of sFlt-1. In addition, treatment with Losartan significantly reduced the hypertension in response to placental ischemia, while decreasing circulating levels of sFlt-1. Therefore, it can be suggested that AT1 receptor activation stimulates the placental production of sFlt-1 and contributes to the hypertension in response to placental ischemia. The gene discussed is AGTR1; the disease is hypertensive disorder.