Maternal Factors and Vascular Remodelling in Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a complex physiological process that requires extensive adaptation of the maternal cardiovascular system to meet the demands of the growing fetus. Vascular remodelling plays a crucial role in ensuring adequate blood supply to the placenta and maintaining maternal hemodynamic stability. Maternal factors, including hormonal changes, immune responses, and genetic predisposition, contribute to the dynamic remodelling of the maternal vasculature during pregnancy. Understanding the intricate interplay between these factors and vascular remodelling is vital for comprehending the pathophysiology of pregnancy-related disorders such as preeclampsia and gestational hypertension. Recent studies have shed light on several key advances in the field of maternal factors and vascular remodelling in pregnancy. Researchers have identified novel hormonal mediators, such as relaxin and placental growth factor, that regulate vascular tone and endothelial function during pregnancy. Additionally, genetic studies have uncovered specific gene variants associated with altered vascular remodelling and increased susceptibility to pregnancy-related complications. Furthermore, advancements in imaging techniques, such as Doppler ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging, have allowed for non-invasive monitoring of maternal vascular changes, enabling early detection and management of pregnancy-related disorders.

This Research Topic aims to explore the multifaceted interactions between maternal factors and vascular remodelling during pregnancy. By investigating the hormonal, genetic, and environmental influences on maternal vascular adaptation, the research seeks to elucidate the mechanisms underlying normal and pathological pregnancy outcomes. Specific questions include how hormonal mediators influence vascular tone, the genetic predispositions that affect vascular remodelling, and the role of angiogenic factors in placental development. The research will also test hypotheses related to the impact of oxidative stress on maternal vasculature and the effectiveness of therapeutic interventions targeting vascular remodelling.

To gather further insights into the complex dynamics of maternal vascular adaptation, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:
- Hormonal regulation of vascular tone
- Genetic factors influencing maternal vascular adaptation
- Role of angiogenic factors in placental vascular development
- Impact of oxidative stress on maternal vasculature
- Non-invasive imaging techniques for assessing maternal vascular changes
- Pregnancy-related disorders and impaired vascular remodelling
- Therapeutic interventions targeting maternal vascular remodelling