Environmental Effects Impacting Preimplantation Development

Fleming, TP; Velazquez, MA; Watkins, AJ; Eckert, JJ

doi:10.1016/B978-0-443-21477-6.00375-8

Environmental Effects Impacting Preimplantation Development

Lookup NU author(s): Dr Miguel Velazquez ORCiD

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Abstract

The preimplantation embryo undergoes morphogenesis to form a blastocyst largely independent of its external environment mediated through an intrinsic developmental program. However, the early embryo across species is sensitive to external cues such as growth factors, cytokines, metabolites, and nutrients which, in the short-term, tend to influence the rate of morphogenesis and receptivity for implantation. Recent research has also shown environmental conditions may change the embryo beyond implantation, affecting growth and health into adulthood. These environments include in vivo maternal nutrition, paternal factors, or conditions used during assisted reproductive treatment. Preimplantation embryos may respond to environmental factors through a series of epigenetic, molecular, cellular, and physiological mechanisms. Embryo sensitivity and plasticity has implications for the health and disease risk of offspring across their lifespan.