Placental and embryonic growth restriction in mice lacking the transcription factor Nrf2

Objectives: The nuclear factor-erythroid 2-related factor 2 (Nrf2) is a potent activator that regulates the expression of antioxidants and detoxication enzymes. Recent discussion about a link between Nrf2 and vascular angiogenic balance in preeclampsia has focussed on the downstream target protein, heme oxygenase-1 (HO-1). The effect Nrf2 on placental development has not been yet discussed. In particular, we evaluated the placental and fetal growth, the feto-placental phenotype and oxidative stress status in Nrf2 knockout (Nrf2-/-) mice at different stages of pregnancy. Methods: Placentae from Nrf2-/- and wild t…