Novel Insights into the Control of Human Pregnancy: Potential Role(s) for Epigenetic Regulation

The appropriate modulation of gene expression in gestational tissues is an essential requirement for a successful pregnancy. Epigenetic control of gene expression through the reversible modification of chromatin has emerged as a fundamental mechanism for the coordination of gene expression in a range of biological systems. Here we summarize recent results in support of our hypothesis that key physiological events and pathological processes occurring throughout human pregnancy are under epigenetic control.