The interplay between thyroid hormones and the placenta: a comprehensive review†

Area of Science:

• Reproductive endocrinology
• Molecular biology
• Obstetrics

Background:

• Thyroid hormones (THs) regulate critical metabolic processes during pregnancy.
• Placental development is essential for embryonic growth and is influenced by maternal THs.
• Maternal THs dysregulation is associated with pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, miscarriage, and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR).

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the molecular mechanisms linking THs signaling to placental development and function.
• To explore the role of THs in trophoblast proliferation, differentiation, invasion, and decidual angiogenesis.
• To examine the impact of endocrine disruptors on placental THs signaling.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on thyroid hormones, placenta, and pregnancy complications.
• Analysis of molecular pathways involving THs signaling in placental cells.
• Examination of the roles of placental THs transporters, deiodinases, and receptors.

Main Results:

• THs signaling is integral to placental formation and function.
• Specific pregnancy complications are linked to alterations in placental THs metabolism and signaling.
• Endocrine disruptors can interfere with placental THs signaling.

Conclusions:

• THs signaling is vital for normal placental development and function.
• Understanding THs ' role is key to addressing dysthyroidism-associated pregnancy complications.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the mechanisms involved.