Understanding the impact of placental oxidative and nitrative stress in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth restriction
India A Brooker, Joshua J. Fisher, Jessie M. Sutherland, Kirsty G. Pringle
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) impacts approximately 10 % of all pregnancies worldwide and is associated with major adverse effects on fetal health in both the short- and long-term [1]. FGR most commonly arises as a result of impaired placentation, occurring in up to 60 % of cases in developed countries [2]. This narrative review outlines the impact of defective placentation on the placenta, focusing on redox imbalance, how this leads to placental oxidative and nitrative stress, and the implications of these stressors on placental nutrient transfer, premature replicative senescence, and trophoblast cell death. Furthermore, this review highlights the pivotal role of antioxidants in protecting against oxidative and nitrative damage by reducing the burden of reactive species. We explore how targeting antioxidants in pregnancy provides a promising strategy for preventing or treating FGR, to ultimately reduce the devastating burden of FGR on infant health. • Oxidative and nitrative stress in the placenta contribute to fetal growth restriction pathophysiology. • Placental oxidative and nitrative stress result in severe downstream implications for the placenta. • Several antioxidant candidates may prove beneficial for treating or preventing fetal growth restriction.