Inherent mosaicism and extensive mutation of human placentas

Publication: Nature

Tim H. H. Coorens, Thomas R. W. Oliver, Rashesh Sanghvi, Ulla Sovio, Emma Cook, Roser Vento-Tormo, Muzlifah Haniffa, Matthew D. Young, Raheleh Rahbari, Neil Sebire, Peter J. Campbell, D. Stephen Charnock-Jones, Gordon C. S. Smith & Sam Behjati

10 March 2020


Summary

Researchers found evidence to support the theory of the placenta as a ‘dumping ground’ for genetic defects, whereas the fetus corrects or avoids these errors. The findings provide a clear rationale for studying the association between genetic aberrations and birth outcomes, in order to better understand problems such as premature birth and stillbirth. Read the full story.

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