Professor Amanda Sferruzzi-Perri

In developed countries, over 15% of women experience pregnancy complications linked to placental insufficiency, contributing substantially to maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality. These complications — including fetal growth restriction, preterm birth, gestational diabetes, and preeclampsia — are even more common in developing nations.

To better understand the aetiology of these conditions and the broader developmental processes that underpin them, our laboratory investigates the environmental and genetic regulation of placental morphogenesis and function, and how these influence fetal development, maternal health, and the long-term programming of disease.

Our research integrates cutting-edge genetic models with well-established environmental paradigms, combined with in vivo functional assays and cellular, histological, and molecular approaches in vitro. We also draw on clinical data and donated human biomaterials from women to strengthen the translational relevance of our findings. Through these multidisciplinary approaches, we aim to uncover how the placenta operates as a central regulator of maternal and fetal health.

We are keen to collaborate with other researchers to share knowledge, tools, and expertise to advance understanding in this important field.

Key Research Aims

1. To elucidate the molecular mechanisms governing placental trophoblast differentiation and function.

2. To determine how the placenta influences maternal metabolic and cardiovascular systems, and thereby affects the allocation of resources to the fetus.

3. To investigate how the placenta senses and responds to the maternal environment to regulate fetal growth and development.

4. To assess whether alterations in placental function have lasting effects on the health trajectories of both offspring and mother later in life.

Current Funding

• Wellcome Trust

• BBSRC

• MRC