Teratogens are likely to lead to alterations in normal control of gene expression and reprogramming during embryonic and/or fetal development in disorders like fetal alcohol syndrome [162]. There is no doubt that the pathway changes seen in teratogenic effects will be complex and will involve gene regulation.

Can teratogens be genetic?

Teratogenicity may be related to both maternal and fetal genetic variants affecting the pharmacokinetics (absorption, distribution, metabolism, excretion, placental transport) and the receptor binding of an agent.

What is genetic teratogenesis?

Teratogenesis is a prenatal toxicity characterized by structural or functional defects in the developing embryo or fetus. It also includes intrauterine growth retardation, death of the embryo or fetus, and transplacental carcinogenesis (in which chemical exposure of the mother initiates cancer development in the…