Oxidative DNA damage markers and epigenetic aging of placenta

Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute Of Child Health & Human Development

Investigators

Abstract

Laboratory analyses are underway to measure placenta-derived oxidative stress biomarkers, and biomarkers of inflammation and glycemia status in stored maternal plasma collected at four gestation times (8-12, 16-22, 24-29, and 34-37 weeks) in the NICHD Fetal Growth Studies. The findings may point to markers of pathological changes in a prematurely aging placenta, which contributes to the NICHD Strategic Plans goal that emphasizes the need for monitoring and developing non-invasive early indicators of threats to the health of pregnant women and their children.