THE ELEPHANT IN THE ROOM: DNA ANALYSIS REVEALS GENOMIC ALTERATIONS IN IDIOPATHIC IUGR

The objective of this retrospective study was to understand whether genomic alterations, as detected by DNA molecular investigations in the fetus, can explain isolated IUGR once maternal causes have been excluded. Additionally, a histomorphological exploration of the placenta was performed systematically post-partum. Our study did not involve serialized placental biopsy aimed to detect mosaicisms, but still the combination of the genomic and anatomo-pathological analyses might allow the definition of precise genotype-phenotype correlation, highlighting genes either directly involved in fetal growth or in placental functions related to fetal thriving. The isolation of the responsible genes for IUGR is the key to develop tailored therapeutic approaches aimed to improve fetal growth and preventing the further complications of this condition.