Oryctolagus Cuniculus model for fetal growth restriction and extrapolation of primary outcomes to modern obstetrics

Background: As reported by the World Health Organization, fetal growth restriction occurs in approximately 10% of pregnancies. However, the underlying pathogenic mechanisms and associated outcomes have not been thoroughly investigated.

Aim: To develop an optimal Oryctolagus cuniculus model for fetal growth restriction and to establish a methodology for its application.

Methods: The early fetal growth restriction was modeled by the uterine artery ligation prior to the onset of O. cuniculus pregnancy. The model of late fetal growth restriction was induced by the artery ligation on the 25th day of gestation. The fetoplacental unit was obtained on the 30th day of gestation through a cesarean section of O. cuniculus.

Results: In the group of late fetal growth restriction, there was a significant decrease in fetal and placental weights compared to the control group (p <0.05). However, no significant differences in these parameters were observed between the model of early fetal growth restriction and control animals (p >0.05).

Conclusion: This study has demonstrated two different models of fetal growth restriction. The findings of this study suggest that the approach of late fetal growth restriction, which involves the uterine artery ligation on the 25th day of gestation, is a more viable and promising option for further exploration and implementation into the scope of experimental obstetrics.