MRI detection of asymmetric intrauterine growth restriction due to placental insufficiency

Purpose: Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is defined as a fetus that is not maintaining its genetic growth potential in utero. This reduced growth is often caused by placental insufficiency resulting in decreased nutrient and oxygen supply to the fetus. To increase the likelihood of survival, fetal adaptations occur, which include brain sparing leading to asymmetric growth restriction, altered fat storage and muscle development, and response to insulin. These adaptations can progress into postnatal life, increasing the offspring’s risk for later life metabolic and cardiovascular disease. The purpose of this work was to utilize MRI in fetal guinea pigs to observe organ development and fat deposition abnormalities in IUGR fetuses.