Structure-function relationships in the feto-placental circulation from in silico interpretation of micro-CT vascular structures.

ABSTRACT: A well-functioning placenta is critical for healthy fetal development, as the placenta brings fetal blood in close contact with nutrient rich maternal blood, enabling exchange of nutrients and waste between mother and fetus. The feto-placental circulation forms a complex branching structure, providing blood to fetal capillaries, which must receive sufficient blood flow to ensure effective exchange, but at a low enough pressure to prevent damage to placental circulatory structures. The branching structure of the feto-placental circulation is known to be altered in complications such as fetal growth restriction, and the presence of regions of vascular dysfunction (such as hypovascularity or thrombosis) are proposed to elevate risk of placental pathology. Here we present a methodology to comb

SUBMITTER: Byrne M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7613408 | biostudies-literature | 2021 May

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature