Steroid hormones and first trimester vascular remodeling

Abstract

Successful implantation and placentation require neoangiogenesis and the remodeling of the uterine spiral arteries. Progesterone and estradiol control various of the placental functions, but their role in vascular remodeling remains controversial. Therefore, this chapter aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the role of steroid hormones in the uteroplacental vascular remodeling during the first trimester of gestation.

Keywords: Angiogenesis; Early gestation; Estradiol; Progesterone; Spiral artery remodeling; Trophoblast.