In addition to confirming both the IUGR and preservation of heart mass previously reported, the principle findings of this study are that the LV of NR fetuses demonstrates: 1) decreased AT1 and AT2 protein without a decrease in AT1 and AT2 mRNA; and 2) increased VEGF mRNA without an increase in total VEGF protein; leading to the conclusion that VEGF and the intra-cardiac renin-angiotensin system receptors are not directly involved in the protection of left ventricular mass observed in this model. This evidence concerns the gene VEGFA and fetal growth restriction.