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Updated: Feb 19, 2026

The 4-vessel Sampling Approach to Integrative Studies of Human Placental Physiology In Vivo
Published on: August 2, 2017
Role of Placental VDR Expression and Function in Common Late Pregnancy Disorders
Julia Knabl1,2, Aurelia Vattai3, Yao Ye4
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital, Ludwig-Maximilians Universität München, 80337 Munich, Germany. Julia.knabl@gmx.de.
Abstract:
Vitamin D, besides its classical role in bone metabolism, plays a distinct role in multiple pathways of the feto-maternal unit. Calcitriol is the major active ligand of the nuclear vitamin D receptor (VDR). The vitamin D receptor (VDR) is expressed in different uteroplacental parts and exerts a variety of functions in physiologic pregnancy. It regulates decidualisation and implantation, influences hormone secretion and placental immune modulations. This review highlights the role of the vitamin D receptor in physiologic and disturbed pregnancy, as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes and preterm birth. We discuss the existing literature regarding common VDR polymorphisms in these pregnancy disorders.
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