Endocrine Abstracts

Fetal growth restriction (FGR), which describes the failure of a fetus to achieve its genetic growth potential, not only increases the risk of perinatal mortality and morbidity but also predisposes to metabolic disease in adulthood. In developed countries, FGR is typically attributed to dysfunction of the placenta – a transient organ that mediates nutrient supply, eliminates waste, and protects the fetus from maternal immune response. The placenta also functions as a majo...