The effects of Nrf2 deletion on placental morphology and exchange capacity in the mouse

AbstractObjectives: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is defined as a pathological decreased fetal growth. Oxidative stress has been connected to the restriction in the fetal growth. The transcription factor nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a potent activator of the cellular antioxidant response. The effect Nrf2 on fetal–placental development has not yet been sufficiently investigated. Here, we evaluated the placental and fetal growth in Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2-KO) and Nrf2-wild type mice (Nrf2-WT) throughout pregnancy.Methods: Heterozygote Nrf2 (Nrf2+/−) mice were paired to get Nrf2-KO and Nrf2-WT in the litters. Placentae and embryos from both genotypes were collected and weighed on days 13.5, 15.5 and 18.5 post coitum. The absolute volumes of the labyrinth zone and the total volume of the placenta were determined using the Cavalieri principle.Results: On E 18.5 the fetal weight in Nrf2-KO was significantly reduced versus Nrf2-WT indicating a decrease in placental efficiency. A sig...