Molecular Insights in Placental Function and Pregnancy Complications

Dear Colleagues,

Pregnancy complications such as preeclampsia, fetal growth restriction, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth represent a substantial global health burden and remain the leading causes of maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. Despite significant advances in obstetric care, the biological mechanisms underlying these conditions remain incompletely understood, and effective strategies for early prediction, prevention, and targeted treatment are still limited. 

The placenta plays a central role in pregnancy health, functioning as a dynamic interface between maternal and fetal systems. Disruptions in placental development, vascular function, immune regulation, and metabolic signaling are increasingly recognized as key contributors to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Advances in molecular research have deepened our understanding of these processes, underscoring the roles of angiogenic imbalance, inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic dysregulation.

Within this framework, biomarkers—particularly angiogenic factors—provide a critical link between molecular discovery and clinical application. However, successful translation into routine care requires not only robust biological validation but also attention on implementation challenges, health system integration, and real-world feasibility, especially in low- and middle-income settings.

This Special Issue welcomes molecular, translational, and implementation-focused studies that enhance understanding of placental biology, support the development of clinically actionable biomarkers, and contribute to molecularly informed, patient-centered approaches to pregnancy care.

Dr. Jezid Miranda
Guest Editor

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