Study protocol Histomorphometric study of human umbilical cord and its correlation with oxidative stress markers in normal and intrauterine growth retarded newborn in Maharashtra, India

Abstract

The umbilical cord is essential for fetal growth, ensuring exchange of oxygen, nutrients, and waste between mother and fetus¹. Its histological and morphometric features reflect fetal well-being, and variations are linked to outcomes like intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR), caused by impaired umbilical blood flow². IUGR arises from multiple maternal and fetal factors such as malnutrition, anemia, hypertension, infections, and cord abnormalities³, contributing significantly to perinatal morbidity and mortality. Despite its impact, effective treatment remains difficult due to its multifactorial nature⁴.

Oxidative stress, resulting from imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) and antioxidant defenses, plays a key role in IUGR pathophysiology⁵. It can cause endothelial dysfunction, placental insufficiency, and cord vasoconstriction, restricting fetal growth⁶. Evaluating umbilical cord parameters like vessel dimensions, Wharton’s jelly, and wall thickness alongside oxidative stress markers may clarify underlying mechanisms.