Assisted reproductive technology (ART) and epigenetic modifications in the placenta

Abstract

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has become common amongst couples with infertility issues. ART is known to be successful, but epidemiological data indicates that ART is associated with placental disorders. Additionally, reports show increased risks of short- and long-term complications in children born to mothers undergoing ART. However, the mechanisms responsible for these events are obscure. The placenta is considered as a key organ for programming of diseases and ART procedures are suggested to alter the placental function and intrauterine growth trajectories. Epigenetic changes in maternal and foetal tissues are suggested to be the underlying mechanisms for these outcomes. Epigenetic regulation is known to evolve following fertilisation and before implantation and subsequently across gestation. During these critical periods of epigenetic ‘programming’, DNA methylation and chromatin remodelling influence the placental structure and function by regulating the expression of various genes. ART treatment coinciding with epigenetic ‘programming’ events during gametogenesis and early embryo development may alter the programming phases leading to long-term consequences. Thus, disruptions in placental development observed in ART pregnancies could be associated with altered epigenetic regulation of vital genes in the placenta. The review summarises available literature on the influence of ART procedures on epigenetic changes in the placenta.

Keywords:

• Assisted reproductive technology
• placenta
• epigenetics
• foetal programming
• in vitro fertilisation

Author contributions

DPS and SRJ contributed to the conception and design of the review. DPS performed the literature search, DPS and SRJ wrote the review and reviewed the final manuscript.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflict of interest.

Additional information

Funding

The authors acknowledge Department of Biotechnology (DBT), Government of India for funding the project ‘Epigenetic regulation of angiogenic factors in assisted reproductive technology (ART) and non-ART derived placentae’ [Grant number: BT/PR30830/MED/97/441/2018].