Complex multicellular organisms, such as mammals, express two complete sets of
chromosomes per nucleus, combining the genetic material of both parents. However …

The placenta is the chief regulator of nutrient supply to the growing embryo during gestation.
As such, adequate placental function is instrumental for developmental progression …

Epidemiological evidence links an individual's susceptibility to chronic disease in adult life to
events during their intrauterine phase of development. Biologically this should not be …

Extensive experimental animal studies and epidemiological observations have shown that
environmental influences during early development affect the risk of later pathophysiological …

The mucosal surfaces of mammals are densely colonized with microorganisms that are
commonly referred to as the commensal microbiota. It is believed that the fetus in utero is …

The mechanisms underlying gene repression and silencers are poorly understood. Here we
investigate the hypothesis that H3K27me3-rich regions of the genome, defined from clusters …

Genomic imprinting is an epigenetic phenomenon that results in monoallelic gene
expression according to parental origin. It has long been established that imprinted genes …

Abnormal fetal growth, both growth restriction and overgrowth, is associated with perinatal
complications and an increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular disease later in life …

Appropriate fetal growth relies upon adequate placental nutrient transfer. Birthweight:
placental weight ratio (BW: PW ratio) is often used as a proxy for placental efficiency, defined …

The insulin-like growth factor (IGF) system comprises two ligands, IGF-I and IGF-II, that
regulate multiple physiological processes, including mammalian development, metabolism …