The obstetric syndromes: clinical relevance of placental hormones

Abstract

Preterm delivery, preeclampsia and intrauterine growth restriction are the major diseases of pregnancy. A key role in their pathogenesis is played by the placenta, which is the source of hormones and other important regulatory molecules providing the metabolic and endocrine homeostasis of the fetal–placental unit.

Since obstetric syndromes are characterized by important maternal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide, numerous efforts have been made over the years to prevent and treat them.

Due to their complex pathogenesis, however, the therapy is poor and not very effective. Therefore, great emphasis is currently given to the prevention of these diseases through the identification of biochemical and biophysical markers, among which placental factors play a crucial role. The increasing knowledge of the role of placental molecules can indeed lead to the development of new therapeutic and diagnostic tools.

Keywords::

• abnormal placentation
• intrauterine growth restriction
• obstetrics syndromes
• placental hormones
• preterm delivery

Financial & competing interests disclosure

The authors have no relevant affiliations or financial involvement with any organization or entity with a financial interest in or financial conflict with the subject matter or materials discussed in the manuscript. This includes employment, consultancies, honoraria, stock ownership or options, expert testimony, grants or patents received or pending, or royalties.

No writing assistance was utilized in the production of this manuscript.