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Epigenetics Beyond Fetal Growth Restriction: A Comprehensive Overview
Noemi Salmeri1, Ilma Floriana Carbone2, Paolo Ivo Cavoretto1
1Gynecology/Obstetrics Unit, IRCCS San Raffaele Scientific Institute, 20132, Milan, Italy.
Molecular Diagnosis & Therapy
|August 26, 2022
Summary
Fetal growth restriction is linked to placental epigenetic changes that affect fetal development and long-term health. Understanding these epigenetic mechanisms is key to developing new interventions for pregnancy complications.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Developmental Biology
- Epigenetics
Background:
- Fetal growth restriction (FGR) occurs when a fetus doesn't reach its growth potential, often due to placental issues.
- Severe FGR increases risks for perinatal complications and later-life cardio-metabolic and neurological disorders.
- The Developmental Origin of Health and Disease hypothesis links in-utero "programming" via epigenetic marks to adult health outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of the epigenetic factors involved in fetal growth restriction.
- To critically analyze the literature on placental epigenetics and its role in FGR.
- To discuss the impact of environmental exposures on the placental epigenome and fetal development.
Main Methods:
- A systematic literature search was conducted using PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase, and The Cochrane Library up to January 2022.
- A narrative review synthesizing available literature was performed, adhering to the Scale for the Assessment of Narrative Review Articles guidelines.
- Evidence on epigenetic mechanisms (DNA methylation, histone modifications, non-coding RNAs) and environmental influences was critically evaluated.
Main Results:
- Various epigenetic marks affecting placental development, function, and metabolism are potentially associated with FGR.
- Environmental exposures can shape the placental epigenome and influence fetal phenotype.
- The complex interplay between epigenetic mechanisms and placental transcriptome requires further investigation.
Conclusions:
- Epigenetic alterations in the placenta play a significant role in fetal growth restriction and the Developmental Origin of Health and Disease.
- Further research, particularly using multi-omics approaches, is needed to fully understand these complex interactions.
- Elucidating these mechanisms offers potential for early interventions and novel treatment strategies for FGR and related long-term health issues.
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