Based on the previous data from our group as well as other laboratories, we postulate that there is a correlation between impaired telomere homeostasis, senescence genomic instability and intra-uterine programming in placentas and in fetuses exposed to suboptimal intrauterine conditions such as hypoxia or hyperglycemia. Improved understanding of the mechanisms that produce the genomic changes in IUGR placentas and their influence on later risks of developing the metabolic syndrome should provide basis for future research that might lead into improved outcome of IUGR fetuses.