About this Research Topic
Teratogenesis studies the occurrence of birth defects caused by extrinsic factors that are capable to cross the placenta and disrupt the embryo/fetal development. Around 10% of birth defects are caused by environmental agents or conditions: these can be chemicals, including medicines, but also biologicals or maternal conditions that are collectively known as teratogens. Thalidomide and Zika virus are well-studied examples of teratogens; however, for these and other agents, the mechanisms of teratogenesis are not fully known. In this context, animal models are essential for the understanding of teratogenic mechanisms, as they represent a powerful tool for the screening of potential new teratogens and development of preventive measures. In addition, epidemiological and studies in human samples are crucial to provide a comprehensive picture of teratogenic mechanisms and to describe new teratogens.
Teratogenesis is a field that requests high epidemiological vigilance and a combination with human and animal findings. The goal of this Research Topic is to provide a comprehensive picture on current advances on teratogenesis, including epidemiological findings in humans, genetic and molecular studies in human samples and experimental studies in animal models.
We welcome the submission of Original Research, Review, Mini-Review and Opinion articles covering the following subtopics:
• Description of phenotypes induced by human teratogens: epidemiologic studies
• Genetic/Genomics analysis in human samples exposed to teratogens
• Teratogenic exposure in animal models: understanding molecular mechanisms and developing drug screening
• Discussions and concerns on potential new teratogens
• System Biology and in silico approaches in teratogenesis
Important Note: All contributions to this Research Topic must be within the scope of the section and journal to which they are submitted, as defined in their mission statements. Frontiers reserves the right to guide an out-of-scope manuscript to a more suitable section or journal at any stage of peer review.
