Targeting micronutrients to tackle pregnancy disorders: an integrated approach

Preeclampsia, preterm birth, intrauterine growth restriction and gestational diabetes afflict 25% of first pregnancies and can be life threatening to mother and/or baby. Maternal obesity is common but places women and babies at greater risk of these and other complications. We will determine the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which maternal micronutrient deficiencies and obesity interact to impact placental function and pregnancy outcome in our pregnancy cohorts and in placental tissue.