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Life-threatening anomalies can occur during the development of the embryo as a result of genetic and/or environmental factors. Some of these are now amenable to surgical intervention, and novel corrective procedures have increasing success rates. The fetus is highly dependent upon the placenta and its physico-chemical environment for growth and development. As the intrauterine environment exerts permanent alterations to organ development, it has the potential to have life-long consequences for health and disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]