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Microorganisms in the Placenta: Links to Early-Life Inflammation and Neurodevelopment in Children

Martha Scott Tomlinson1, Kun Lu1, Jill R Stewart1

  • 1Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, North Carolina, USA.

Clinical Microbiology Reviews
|May 3, 2019
PubMed

Insights

Prenatal microbial infections in the placenta may impact fetal brain development and lead to adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes. Research links placental microorganisms to inflammation and epigenetic changes affecting child health.

Area of Science:

  • Obstetrics and Gynecology
  • Developmental Neuroscience
  • Microbiology

Background:

  • Prenatal stressors can negatively affect childhood health.
  • Intrauterine microbial infections, particularly in the placenta, are linked to preterm birth and later neurological issues.
  • The interplay between placental microorganisms, placental function, and fetal development requires further investigation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review existing research on microorganisms in the placenta.
  • To explore the associations between placental microbes, placental DNA methylation, perinatal inflammation, and neurodevelopmental outcomes.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of studies investigating placental microorganisms.
  • Analysis of associations between microbial presence, epigenetic modifications (DNA methylation), and inflammatory markers.
  • Correlation of findings with neurodevelopmental outcomes in offspring.

Main Results:

  • Microbial presence in the placenta is associated with perinatal inflammatory responses.
  • Microorganisms in the placenta are linked to epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation.
  • These factors collectively may influence fetal brain development and later neurodevelopmental trajectories.

Conclusions:

  • The presence of microorganisms within the placenta is a significant factor influencing perinatal inflammation and epigenetic changes.
  • Understanding these relationships is crucial for identifying potential risks and interventions for neurodevelopmental outcomes.
  • Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms connecting placental microbes to fetal development and long-term health.

Keywords:
DNA methylationbacteriainflammationneurodevelopmental disordersplacenta

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