Endocrine Abstracts

Introduction: Abnormal fetal growth can cause perinatal morbidity and mortality. The placenta regulates materno-fetal nutrient transfer and secretes hormones with maternal physiological effects. In mice, global loss of insulin-like growth factor 2 (Igf2), a paternally-expressed imprinted gene, causes fetoplacental growth restriction in association with changes in placental transport and endocrine zone (Jz) formation. However, the role of Igf2 in regulating pl...

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...