ABSTRACT
The heterogeneity of placental gene expression prole, both spatially and temporally having potential implications in the development and propagation of different pregnancy-related pathologies, has been reported. In addition, changes in DNA methylation may contribute to the altered expression of genes linked to pathological pregnancies. In fact, epigenetics provides an important gene expression regulatory mechanism in placenta. Therefore, it is reasonable to look for the potential association of placental insufciency (e.g., preeclampsia and miscarriage) with the genes regulating those processes. Placental immunology may be considered herewith while discussing the genetic background of the disorders of placental insufciency. Application of gene expression proles and knowledge of epigenetic anomalies may become integral parts of diagnostic procedures and assisted reproductive technologies in the near future. This chapter deals only with placental gene expression in pathological pregnancies.
