The pathologic changes of human placental macrophages in women with hyperglycemia in pregnancy

Abstract

As the most common complication of pregnancy, hyperglycemia has a profound impact on maternal and fetal health and the long-term development of the offspring. Placental macrophages, including fetal-derived macrophages also known as Hofbauer cells (HBCs) and placenta-associated maternal monocyte/macrophages (PAMMs), are thought to play a crucial role in regulating pregnancy and maintaining the internal environment, and are critical for fetal development. This review aims to profile existing knowledge on HBCs and PAMMs across gestation, and consider how hyperglycemia may impact their phenotype and function in pregnancy.

Keywords: Hofbauer cells; Hyperglycemia; Macrophage; Placenta; Placenta-associated maternal macrophages; Pregnancy.