Placental biomarkers of fetal-originated diseases

Abstract

Fetal-originated diseases refer to birth defects of offspring and multiple chronic diseases in adulthood caused by abnormal embryonic development. However, due to the vulnerability of the fetus/ neonate and technical limitations, it is very difficult to carry out effective development assessment and early warning of long-term diseases in the early stages of life. It is known that the placenta is the unique link between the mother and the fetus, and its role in the occurrence and progression of fetal-originated diseases cannot be ignored. Studies have found that a variety of adverse environmental factors (such as nanoparticle exposure) cannot pass through the placental barrier, but can lead to fetal dysplasia and multi-organ development programming changes by affecting placental development, and ultimately mediate the occurrence of fetal-originated diseases. Meanwhile, some environmental factors that can pass through the placental barrier can cause placenta-fetal co-exposure, resulting in similar signaling pathways and epigenetic changes. The placenta originates from the fetus and the mother, and its development is accompanied by changes in indicators that can be objectively and quantitatively detected. These factors can be used as a biomarker to assess maternal exposure, and placental function, and to predict the developmental status and long-term disease susceptibility of offspring. To date, researchers have discovered a variety of potential placental biomarkers, and show promising application prospects. This paper reviews the recent research on placenta-related mechanisms leading to fetal-originated diseases and placental biomarkers, to provide the theoretical and experimental basis for early warning, prevention, and treatment of fetal-originated diseases.