TEK and hydrops fetalis: In particular, expression levels of genes coding for Notch1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) receptor (Dll4, Kdr, Flt4, Nrp1, and Nrarp), TGF-β receptor (Eng), Ephrin B receptor (Ephb4), and receptor tyrosine kinase (Tek and Tie1), which are all membrane receptors for ligands important for vascular development and homeostasis, were significantly downregulated in the DSS + HF group (Figure 4D).