At 20 and 40 dpp, follicle-stimulating hormone receptor (Fshr) was significantly upregulated in IUGR rats (P < 0.05 and P < 0.02, respectively), whereas Kit ligand (Kitl) was downregulated in IUGR rats 40 dpp, compared to shams (P < 0.02). This evidence concerns the gene KITLG and fetal growth restriction.