Physiology and Pathophysiology of Placenta

Placental villous trees development and differentiation is tightly regulated by several molecular processes during pregnancy. In fact, growth factors, their receptors and other types of molecules can modulate trophoblast and endothelial cell proliferation, differentiation, migration and invasion. Thus, an impairment of normal placental development can cause several pregnancy complications including preeclampsia (PE), fetal growth restriction (FGR), gestational trophoblastic diseases (GTD) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). In addition, external factors, such as microbial agents, chemicals and natural compounds, can significantly impair normal placental development and function compromising pregnancy outcome. These pregnancy complications can also increase maternal and fetal mortality and morbidity, leading to life-long health implications in both mother and child. The aim of this Special Issue is to provide an overview of placental development and pathophysiology in order to better understand the molecular mechanisms involved in pregnancy.

07/04/2025