Developmental genes during placentation: insights from mouse mutants

Placenta, a temporary organ first formed during the development of a new life is essential for the survival and growth of the fetus in eutherian mammals. It serves as an interface for the exchange of nutrients, gases and wastes between the maternal and fetal compartments. During the past decades, studies employing gene-engineered mouse mutants have revealed a wide range of signaling molecules governing the trophoblast development and function during placentation under various pathophysiological conditions. Here, we summarize the recent progress with particular respect to the involvement of developmental genes during placentation.