A genetically small fetus impairs placental adaptations near term.

The placenta is a gatekeeper between the mother and fetus, adapting its structure and functions to support optimal fetal growth. Studies exploring adaptations of placentae that support the development of genetically small fetuses are lacking. Here, using a mouse model of impaired fetal growth, achieved by deleting insulin-like growth factor 2 (Igf2) in the epiblast, we assessed placental nutrient transfer and umbilical artery (UA) blood flow during late gestation.

Incremental yield of whole-genome sequencing over chromosomal microarray analysis and exome sequencing for congenital anomalies in prenatal period and infancy: systematic review and meta-analysis.

Objectives: First, to determine the incremental yield of whole-genome sequencing (WGS) over quantitative fluorescence polymerase chain reaction (QF-PCR)/chromosomal microarray analysis (CMA) with and without exome sequencing (ES) in fetuses, neonates and infants with a congenital anomaly that was or could have been detected on prenatal ultrasound. Second, to evaluate the turnaround time (TAT) and quantity of DNA required for testing using these pathways.

Methods: This review was registered prospectively in December 2022.

Local immune recognition of trophoblast in early human pregnancy: controversies and questions.

The role of the maternal immune system in reproductive success in humans remains controversial. Here we focus on the events that occur in the maternal decidua during the first few weeks of human pregnancy, because this is the site at which maternal leukocytes initially interact with and can recognize fetal trophoblast cells, potentially involving allorecognition by both T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. NK cells are the dominant leukocyte population in first-trimester decidua, and genetic studies point to a role of allorecognition by uterine NK cells in establishing a boundary between the mother and the fetus.

Beyond Maternal Tolerance: Education of Uterine Natural Killer Cells by Maternal MHC Drives Fetal Growth.

Reproductive immunology has moved on from the classical Medawar question of 60 years ago "". Looking beyond fetal-maternal tolerance, modern reproductive immunology focuses on how the maternal immune system supports fetal growth. Maternal uterine natural killer (uNK) cells, in partnership with fetal trophoblast cells, regulate physiological vascular changes in the uterus of pregnant women and mice.