Effects of maternal nutrient restriction during the periconceptional period on placental development in the mouse.

Maternal undernutrition has detrimental effects on fetal development and adult health. Total caloric restriction during early pregnancy followed by adequate nutrition for the remainder of gestation, is particularly linked to cardiovascular and metabolic disease risks during adulthood. The placenta is responsible for transport of nutrients from the maternal to fetal circulation, and the efficiency with which it does so can be adjusted to the maternal nutrient supply.