Emerging concepts of shear stress in placental development and function

Blood flow, and the force it generates, is critical to placental development and function throughout pregnancy. This mechanical stimulation of cells by the friction generated from flow is called shear stress (SS) and is a fundamental determinant of vascular homeostasis, regulating remodelling and vasomotor tone. This review describes how SS is fundamental to the establishment and regulation of the blood flow through the uteroplacental and fetoplacental circulations. Amongst the most recent findings is that alongside the endothelium, embryonic stem cells and the villous trophoblast are mechanically sensitive. A complex balance of forces is required to enable effective establishment of the uteroplacental circulation, while protecting the embryo and placental villi. SS also generates flow-mediated vasodilatation through the release of endothelial nitric oxide, a process vital for adequate placental blood flow. The identification of SS sensors and the mechanisms governing how the force is converted into biochemical signals is a fast-paced area of research, with multiple cellular components under investigation. For example, the Piezo1 ion channel is mechanosensitive in a variety of tissues including the fetoplacental endothelium. Enhanced Piezo1 activity has been demonstrated in response to the Yoda1 agonist molecule, suggesting the possibility for developing tools to manipulate these channels. Whether such agents might progress to novel therapeutics to improve blood flow through the placenta requires further consideration and research.