Advancing our knowledge of placental function and how it relates to the developing fetal brain

Area of Science:

• Perinatal medicine and developmental biology.

Background:

• Recent advancements in perinatal medicine have improved infant care and outcomes.
• Understanding the maternal/placental/fetal (MPF) triad is essential for optimizing fetal development and postnatal health.
• Current knowledge of the MPF triad's influence on neurodevelopment and long-term health remains incomplete.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current knowledge on the structure and function of the placenta within the MPF triad.
• To discuss the MPF triad's influence on fetal development, neurodevelopment, and long-term health.
• To explore current assessment modalities and future research directions for the MPF triad.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on placental structure and function.
• Analysis of the MPF triad's role in fetal development and health.
• Discussion of current and future research methodologies.

Main Results:

• The placenta plays a critical role in fetal development and is a key component of the MPF triad.
• The MPF triad significantly influences fetal neurodevelopment and long-term health trajectories.
• Further research is needed to fully elucidate the complex interactions within the MPF triad.

Conclusions:

• A comprehensive understanding of the MPF triad is vital for advancing perinatal care and improving infant outcomes.
• Investigating the MPF triad offers potential for novel strategies in disease prevention and treatment across the lifespan.
• Integrating current knowledge of the MPF triad into clinical practice can enhance neurodevelopmental outcomes.