Influence of maternal one carbon metabolites on placental programming and long term health

Studies have shown that the maternal nutrition during critical periods of development not only influences fetal growth but also plays a significant role in determining the risk of chronic disease in later life through developmental ‘programming’. The placenta acts as a tool for ‘programming’ as it has the ability to adapt according to the maternal environment. There are morphological adaptations and also alterations in the expression of genes as a consequence of placental adaptations; which are critical for both placental and fetal development. Maternal nutrients especially the micronutrients (folate, vitamin B12) of the one carbon cycle and long chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) are essential for placental and fetal growth and development. They are interconnected through the one carbon cycle and play a critical role in determining pregnancy outcome. A disturbed one carbon cycle leads to altered methylation of genes which play an important role in placental development and fetal growth. This review discusses the role of maternal one carbon metabolites and its influence on placental ‘programming’ and long term health.