In this episode of Milestones in Maternal Nutrition, Professor Andrew Prentice speaks with Professor Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri about the remarkable biology of the placenta and its critical role as the fetus’s supply line during pregnancy. Professor Sferruzzi-Perri explains how the placenta develops from the earliest stages of embryonic life to regulate the transfer of oxygen, early metabolites and nutrients from mother to baby, while also adapting to changes in the maternal environment. The discussion explores how maternal nutrition, health, and metabolic status can influence placental development and function, shaping fetal growth and long-term health outcomes. Together, they examine how placental dysfunction contributes to complications such as fetal growth restriction, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and preterm birth, while highlighting emerging research aimed at identifying early biomarkers and new therapeutic approaches to improve maternal and child health.

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Nestlé Nutrition Institute