PLAC3 (placenta-specific protein 3), also known as PAPP-A2, is a metalloproteinase that cleaves the insulin-like growth factor-binding protein (IGFBP)-5 in a IGF-independent fashion. It has been suggested that the cleavage of IGFBP-5 and to a lesser extent IGFBP-3 produced in the maternal decidua promotes feto-placental growth. Recent studies have shown elevated levels of PLAC3 in hypertensive disorders of pregnancy including preeclampsia and HELLP (hemolysis, elevated liver enzymes, and low platelets) syndrome.