Perinatal cardiovascular structure and function in fetal growth restriction

Fetal growth restriction is a pregnancy complication linked to placental dysfunction, leading to fetal hypoxemia and increased oxidative stress. This thesis explored how growth restriction affects cardiovascular function and structure, aiming to identify underlying mechanisms and efficacy of melatonin treatment. Growth restriction resulted in progressive, subtle cardiovascular dysfunction from late gestation to four weeks post-birth. In addition, growth restriction reduced the ability to control blood pressure. Treatment with melatonin was able to partially improve aspects of cardiovascular health. This work highlights mechanisms and potential therapies to improve cardiovascular health outcomes in those born small.