Role of the placenta in developmental programming: Observations from models using large animals

Authors

L. P. Reynolds, North Dakota State University
C. R. Dahlen, North Dakota State University
A. K. Ward, North Dakota State University
M. S. Crouse, USDA, Agricultural Research Service
P. P. Borowicz, North Dakota State University
B. J. Davila-Ruiz, North Dakota State University
C. Kanjanaruch, North Dakota State University
K. A. Bochantin, North Dakota State University
K. J. McLean, University of Tennessee Knoxville
K. L. McCarthy, University of Nebraska Lincoln
A. C.B. Menezes, South Dakota State University
W. J.S. Diniz, Auburn University
R. A. Cushman, USDA, Agricultural Research Service
J. S. Caton, North Dakota State University

Document Type

Article

Date of this Version

8-30-2023

Citation

Animal Reproduction Science 257 (2023) 107322. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.anireprosci.2023.107322

Comments

U.S. government works are not subject to copyright.

Abstract

Developmental programming, which proposes that “insults” or “stressors” during intrauterine or postnatal development can have not only immediate but also long-term consequences for healthy and productivity, has emerged as a major biological principle, and based on studies in many animal species also seems to be a universal phenomenon. In eutherians, the placenta appears to be programmed during its development, which has consequences for fetal growth and development throughout pregnancy, and likewise has long-term consequences for postnatal development, leading to programming of organ function of the offspring even into adulthood. This review summarizes our current understanding of the placenta’s role in developmental programming, the mechanisms involved, and the challenges remaining.