Exploring polyamines: Functions in embryo/fetal development

Polyamines such as putrescine, spermidine, spermine and agmatine are aliphatic polycationic compounds present in all living cells, and are derived from amino acids, intestinal bacteria, exfoliated enterocytes and supported from diet. Polyamines as the key compounds play essential role in cell proliferation, growth and differentiation. They also exert significant effects on embryonic development, implantation, embryonic diapause, placentation, angiogensis and fetal development. This review paper summarizes the functions of polyamines and embryo/fetus development and its regulatory mechanism which should help to provide some evidences for clinic.