Document Detail


Developmental programming of the ovine placenta.
MedLine Citation:
PMID:  21755662     Owner:  NLM     Status:  In-Process    
Abstract/OtherAbstract:
The pattern of intrauterine growth and size at birth, in particular, programmes the structure and function of tissues later in life in many species, which has important implications for the incidence of adult-onset generative diseases in human populations. In mammals, the main determinant of intrauterine growth is the placental supply of nutrients which, in turn, depends on the size, morphology, transport characteristics and endocrine function of the placenta. However, compared to somatic tissues, little is known about the developmental programming of the placenta. This review examines the epigenetic regulation of placental phenotype with particular emphasis on the nutrient transfer capacity of the ovine placenta and environmental factors shown to cause developmental programming of other tissues. Overall, the placenta is responsive to environmental factors and uses a number of different strategies to adapt its phenotype to help support fetal growth during adverse intrauterine conditions. It is, therefore, not just a passive conduit for nutrient transfer to the fetus but alters its nutrient supply capacity dynamically to optimise fetal nutrient acquisition. Thus, the placental epigenome provides both a memory of environmental conditions experienced during development and an index of the future well being of the offspring.
Authors:
A L Fowden; J W Ward; F B P Wooding; A J Forhead
Publication Detail:
Type:  Journal Article; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't    
Journal Detail:
Title:  Society of Reproduction and Fertility supplement     Volume:  67     ISSN:  -     ISO Abbreviation:  Soc Reprod Fertil Suppl     Publication Date:  2010  
Date Detail:
Created Date:  2011-07-15     Completed Date:  -     Revised Date:  -    
Medline Journal Info:
Nlm Unique ID:  101295315     Medline TA:  Soc Reprod Fertil Suppl     Country:  England    
Other Details:
Languages:  eng     Pagination:  41-57     Citation Subset:  IM    
Affiliation:
Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Downing Street, Cambridge CB2 3EG, UK. alf1000@cam.ac.uk
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Descriptor/Qualifier:
Grant Support
ID/Acronym/Agency:
//Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council; //Wellcome Trust

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