A groundbreaking study highlights the critical role of oxygenation levels in the placenta during the third trimester in predicting cortical growth, a key determinant of childhood cognition and behavior. Led by Emma Duerden and Emily Nichols at Western University and published in JAMA Network Open, the research used advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to explore the connection between placental health and fetal brain development. This novel imaging approach offers a more precise understanding of placental function compared to traditional ultrasound techniques, enabling early insights into neurodevelopmental disorders and potential interventions.
The placenta, a vital organ during pregnancy, supplies oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. Disruptions to its function—caused by factors like poor nutrition, smoking, chronic hypertension, or diabetes—can result in fetal growth restriction, which affects approximately 6% of pregnancies globally. Such issues may impair the development of the fetal brain, particularly the cortex and prefrontal cortex, regions crucial for learning and memory. The study revealed that an unhealthy placenta in the third trimester increases risks of learning difficulties and neurodevelopmental disorders in later life.
While placental oxygenation significantly impacts cortical development, the study found no effect on subcortical brain structures, such as the amygdala and basal ganglia, which are more vulnerable to disruptions earlier in pregnancy. The research also emphasizes the need to benchmark healthy oxygenation levels to guide maternal health interventions during pregnancy.
Funded by Brain Canada and other leading organizations, this study represents a significant step toward understanding placental health’s role in fetal development. By leveraging MRI’s advanced capabilities, the team has created one of the world’s richest datasets on fetal brain growth, paving the way for future research on improving outcomes for at-risk pregnancies and fostering healthier brain development in children.
