A hallmark of severe CRS is the pronounced activation of endothelial cells mediated by these pro-inflammatory cytokines and characterised by the release of factors including Angiopoietin-2 (HGNC symbol: Ang-2, synonym: ANGPT2) and von Willebrand factor (HGNC symbol: VWF). This evidence concerns the gene ANGPT2 and congenital rubella syndrome.