Molecular aspects of dietary polyphenols in pregnancy

Abstract Maternal nutrition deeply influences fetal growth and development with long-lasting effects. Increasing evidence indicates that a healthy diet rich in fruit and vegetables reduces the risk of maternal and fetal complications. Phenolic compounds contained in plant-derived food possess potential benefits to human health because of their capability to interact and modulate several cellular signaling pathways and molecules. This chapter provides an overview, based on the latest literature data, of the effects of dietary polyphenols on molecular mechanisms governing the various stages of pregnancy. Particular attention will be given to the influence of polyphenols on inflammatory and oxidative processes, as well as on vascular, endocrine, and neuronal factors. The potential harmful effects of specific polyphenols will be also discussed.