Genetics and Epigenetic Regulation of Placental Development and Disease

Dear Colleagues,

Precise regulation of placental gene expression at each stage of pregnancy is crucial for the successful establishment and maintenance of pregnancy. Dysregulation of these gene regulatory mechanisms during pregnancy has been implicated in most pregnancy complications, including preeclampsia, preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction, abruptio placentae, and late spontaneous abortion, which have enormous impacts on the life-long health of mothers and the babies born to mothers with these conditions. However, the molecular underpinnings of placental developmental defects leading to such pregnancy complications are still poorly understood. By understanding the molecular pathways and the distinct defects in trophoblast development and differentiation associated with each pregnancy disease, we could develop much needed diagnostic, preventive, and therapeutic strategies for these diseases.

The goal of this Special Issue is to publish high-quality manuscripts with special emphasis on the genetic and epigenetic regulation of normal placental development and placental developmental defects leading to different pregnancy complications. We welcome reviews, new methods, short communications, and original articles covering all aspects of trophoblast development and differentiation and pregnancy diseases using culture models, clinical studies, and animal models. Priority for publication will be given to studies related to the impact of DNA methylation, histone post-translational modifications, non-coding RNA (long non-coding RNA and microRNA), and epigenetic biomarkers for pregnancy diseases.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Nihar R. Nayak
Prof. Dr. Gary Sutkin
Dr. Sunil Jaiman
Guest Editors

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