Metabolomics to understand placental biology: Where are we now?. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mohammad, S.; Bhattacharjee, J.; Vasanthan, T.; Harris, C.S.; Bainbridge, S.A.; Adamo, K.B.
• Is Part Of: Tissue & cell. Volume 73(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Placenta -- Maternal-fetal interface -- Metabolomics -- Pregnancy; Cytology -- Periodicals; 571.5
• DOI: 10.1016/j.tice.2021.101663
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0040-8166

Abstract

Highlights: Placental tissue metabolomics is an emerging field still in its infancy, but ripe for discovery. Current review of metabolomics methodologies, strengths, and pitfalls is provided. Further research is needed to maximize the utility of placental metabolomics, especially in healthy pregnancies. Abstract: Metabolomics, the application of analytical chemistry methodologies to survey the chemical composition of a biological system, is used to globally profile and compare metabolites in one or more groups of samples. Given that metabolites are the terminal end-products of cellular metabolic processes, or 'phenotype' of a cell, tissue, or organism, metabolomics is valuable to the study of the maternal-fetal interface as it has the potential to reveal nuanced complexities of a biological system as well as differences over time or between individuals. The placenta acts as the primary site of maternal-fetal exchange, the success of which is paramount to growth and development of offspring during pregnancy and beyond. Although the study of metabolomics has proven moderately useful for the screening, diagnosis, and understanding of the pathophysiology of pregnancy complications, the placental metabolome in the context of a healthy pregnancy remains poorly characterized and understood. Herein, we discuss the technical aspects of metabolomics and review the current literature describing the placental metabolome in human and animal models, in the context of health and disease. Finally, we highlight areas for future opportunities in the emerging field of placental metabolomics.