The placental exposome, placental epigenetic adaptations and lifelong cardio-metabolic health

The placental exposome represents the sum of all placental exposures, and through its influence on placental function can affect an individual's susceptibility to cardio-metabolic disease later in life. The placental exposome includes direct exposures during gestation, as well as those prior to gestation that affect the gametes or aspects of maternal physiology that influence placental function. This review will discuss the evidence for placental responses to environmental signals and its involvement in programming offspring health. A wide range of exposures may influence the placenta including maternal metabolic and endocrine status, nutrition, stress and toxins. Epigenetic changes within the placenta induced by these exposures may mediate persistent effects on placental function. Identifying which exposures are most influential in terms of placental function and offspring health is key to focusing future research and developing stratified and personalised interventions.

Automated summary

The placental exposome, which includes both direct and prior exposures during gestation, can influence placental function and affect an individual's susceptibility to cardio-metabolic disease later in life. Various exposures, such as maternal metabolic status, nutrition, stress, and toxins, can impact the placenta, leading to persistent effects on its function through epigenetic changes. Identifying the most influential exposures on placental function and offspring health is crucial for future research and personalized interventions.