Placenta & Pregnancy Disorders

(A/Prof Chan Shiao-yng)

Our research covers the spectrum from basic laboratory science to translational sciences and clinical trials. Our main focus is understanding the normal development of the placenta and fetus, and investigating the impact of different environmental and maternal medical conditions. More specifically, we study the cellular mechanisms of endocrine action in fetal-placental growth and development, diagnosis and management of diabetes and thyroid disorders in pregnancy, transplacental passage of hormones, nutrients and lipids, and conduct clinical trials starting preconception or in early pregnancy. For example, we are one of three international centres conducting the NiPPeR clinical trial that investigates the efficacy of a special nutritional formulation containing myo-inositol, probiotics and additional micronutrients in improving glucose metabolism during pregnancy, as well as pregnancy and child outcomes. Such trials offer the prospect of new strategies in optimising maternal health before pregnancy in order to promote healthy fetal development. Meanwhile, our laboratory research provides complimentary information alongside on-going clinical trials to help us better understand underlying mechanisms as well as generate new knowledge that enables development of further improved interventions. We also run other projects investigating the impact of mosquito-borne viral infections such as the Zika virus, the role of ambient temperatures and implications of maternal mood and stress on pregnancy and child outcomes.

In the area of placental physiology, we are now studying conditions with high incidences in Singapore, such as insulin resistance and gestational diabetes. In collaboration with Singapore Lipidomics Incubator (NUS), we have advanced our understanding in the area of placental lipid flux, using state-of-the-art lipidomic mass spectrometry techniques. We are starting to make remarkable discoveries of how placental lipid metabolism and flux may impact fetal growth and development. Our group has developed close collaboration with researchers within NUS, and across Singapore as well as collaborate with eminent researchers abroad (UK, New Zealand, Australia), and with industry partners.

Overall, our research seeks to develop and validate novel interventions and health advice to optimize maternal health status to improve pregnancy outcomes and reduce future offspring health risks. Better understanding of the placenta, optimising care of women before and during pregnancy will ultimately improve the health of the next and subsequent generations.