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Tartour AI, Chivese T, Eltayeb S, Elamin FM, Fthenou E, Seed Ahmed M, Babu GR. Prenatal psychological distress and 11β-HSD2 gene expression in human placentas: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2024; 166:107060. [PMID: 38677195 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2024.107060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/03/2023] [Revised: 03/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The placenta acts as a buffer to regulate the degree of fetal exposure to maternal cortisol through the 11-Beta Hydroxysteroid Dehydrogenase isoenzyme type 2 (11-β HSD2) enzyme. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess the effect of prenatal psychological distress (PPD) on placental 11-β HSD2 gene expression and explore the related mechanistic pathways involved in fetal neurodevelopment. METHODS We searched PubMed, Embase, Scopus, APA PsycInfo®, and ProQuest Dissertations for observational studies assessing the association between PPD and 11-β HSD2 expression in human placentas. Adjusted regression coefficients (β) and corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled based on three contextual PPD exposure groups: prenatal depression, anxiety symptoms, and perceived stress. RESULTS Of 3159 retrieved records, sixteen longitudinal studies involving 1869 participants across seven countries were included. Overall, exposure to PPD disorders showed weak negative associations with the placental 11-β HSD2 gene expression as follows: prenatal depression (β -0.01, 95% CI 0.05-0.02, I2=0%), anxiety symptoms (β -0.02, 95% CI 0.06-0.01, I2=0%), and perceived stress (β -0.01 95% CI 0.06-0.04, I2=62.8%). Third-trimester PPD exposure was more frequently associated with lower placental 11-β HSD2 levels. PPD and placental 11-β HSD2 were associated with changes in cortisol reactivity and the development of adverse health outcomes in mothers and children. Female-offspring were more vulnerable to PPD exposures. CONCLUSION The study presents evidence of a modest role of prenatal psychological distress in regulating placental 11-β HSD2 gene expression. Future prospective cohorts utilizing larger sample sizes or advanced statistical methods to enhance the detection of small effect sizes should be planned. Additionally, controlling for key predictors such as the mother's ethnicity, trimester of PPD exposure, mode of delivery, and infant sex is crucial for valid exploration of PPD effects on fetal programming.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angham Ibrahim Tartour
- Department of Population Medicine, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box:2713, Doha, Qatar.
| | - Tawanda Chivese
- Department of Population Medicine, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box:2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Safa Eltayeb
- Qatar Biobank for Medical Research, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Fatima M Elamin
- Office of Research Ethics and Integrity, Qatar University, P. O. Box:2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Eleni Fthenou
- Qatar Biobank for Medical Research, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar
| | - Mohammed Seed Ahmed
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box:2713, Doha, Qatar
| | - Giridhara Rathnaiah Babu
- Department of Population Medicine, College of Medicine, QU Health, Qatar University, P. O. Box:2713, Doha, Qatar
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Tu HF, Fransson E, Kunovac Kallak T, Elofsson U, Ramklint M, Skalkidou A. Cohort profile: the U-BIRTH study on peripartum depression and child development in Sweden. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e072839. [PMID: 37949626 PMCID: PMC10649626 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-072839] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE The current U-BIRTH cohort (Uppsala Birth Cohort) extends our previous cohort Biology, Affect, Stress, Imaging and Cognition (BASIC), assessing the development of children up to 11 years after birth. The U-BIRTH study aims to (1) assess the impact of exposure to peripartum mental illness on the children's development taking into account biological and environmental factors during intrauterine life and childhood; (2) identify early predictors of child neurodevelopmental and psychological problems using biophysiological, psychosocial and environmental variables available during pregnancy and early post partum. PARTICIPANTS All mothers participating in the previous BASIC cohort are invited, and mother-child dyads recruited in the U-BIRTH study are consecutively invited to questionnaire assessments and biological sampling when the child is 18 months, 6 years and 11 years old. Data collection at 18 months (n=2882) has been completed. Consent for participation has been obtained from 1946 families of children having reached age 6 and from 698 families of children having reached age 11 years. FINDINGS TO DATE Based on the complete data from pregnancy to 18 months post partum, peripartum mental health was significantly associated with the development of attentional control and gaze-following behaviours, which are critical to cognitive and social learning later in life. Moreover, infants of depressed mothers had an elevated risk of difficult temperament and behavioural problems compared with infants of non-depressed mothers. Analyses of biological samples showed that peripartum depression and anxiety were related to DNA methylation differences in infants. However, there were no methylation differences in relation to infants' behavioural problems at 18 months of age. FUTURE PLANS Given that the data collection at 18 months is complete, analyses are now being undertaken. Currently, assessments for children reaching 6 and 11 years are ongoing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hsing-Fen Tu
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Psychology, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Emma Fransson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Translational Microbiome Research, Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
| | | | - Ulf Elofsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Mia Ramklint
- Department of Medical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alkistis Skalkidou
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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MAYNE GB, DeWITT PE, RINGHAM B, WARRENER AG, CHRISTIANS U, DABELEA D, HURT KJ. A Nested Case-Control Study of Allopregnanolone and Preterm Birth in the Healthy Start Cohort. J Endocr Soc 2022; 7:bvac179. [PMID: 36632210 PMCID: PMC9825133 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvac179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Chronic stress is a risk factor for preterm birth; however, objective measures of stress in pregnancy are limited. Maternal stress biomarkers may fill this gap. Steroid hormones and neurosteroids such as allopregnanolone (ALLO) play important roles in stress physiology and pregnancy maintenance and therefore may be promising for preterm birth prediction. Objective We evaluated maternal serum ALLO, progesterone, cortisol, cortisone, pregnanolone, and epipregnanolone twice in gestation to evaluate associations with preterm birth. Methods We performed a nested case-control study using biobanked fasting serum samples from the Healthy Start prebirth cohort. We included healthy women with a singleton pregnancy and matched preterm cases with term controls (1:1; N = 27 per group). We used a new HPLC-tandem mass spectrometry assay to quantify ALLO and five related steroids. We used ANOVA, Fisher exact, χ2, t test, and linear and logistic regression as statistical tests. Results Maternal serum ALLO did not associate with preterm birth nor differ between groups. Mean cortisol levels were significantly higher in the preterm group early in pregnancy (13w0d-18w0d; P < 0.05) and higher early pregnancy cortisol associated with increased odds of preterm birth (at 13w0d; odds ratio, 1.007; 95% CI, 1.0002-1.014). Progesterone, cortisone, pregnanolone, and epipregnanolone did not associate with preterm birth. Conclusion The findings from our pilot study suggest potential utility of cortisol as a maternal serum biomarker for preterm birth risk assessment in early pregnancy. Further evaluation using larger cohorts and additional gestational timepoints for ALLO and the other analytes may be informative.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriella B MAYNE
- Department of Anthropology, University of Colorado, Denver, CO 80204, USA
| | - Peter E DeWITT
- Department of Pediatrics Informatics and Data Science, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Brandy RINGHAM
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes Center, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Anna G WARRENER
- Department of Anthropology, University of Colorado, Denver, CO 80204, USA
| | - Uwe CHRISTIANS
- iC42 Clinical Research & Development, Department of Anesthesiology, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - Dana DABELEA
- Lifecourse Epidemiology of Adiposity and Diabetes Center, University of Colorado, Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, CO 80045, USA
| | - K Joseph HURT
- Correspondence: K. Joseph Hurt, MD, PhD, 12700 East 19th Ave, Aurora, CO 80045, USA.
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Musana J, Cohen CR, Kuppermann M, Gerona R, Wanyoro A, Aguilar D, Santos N, Temmerman M, Weiss SJ. Obstetric risk in pregnancy interacts with hair cortisone levels to reduce gestational length. Front Glob Womens Health 2022; 3:878538. [PMID: 35936818 PMCID: PMC9354598 DOI: 10.3389/fgwh.2022.878538] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Maternal psychological stress has been linked to preterm birth. However, the differential contribution of psychological stress versus stress hormones is not clear. Studies focus primarily on perceived stress and cortisol, with few assessing its inter-convertible hormone cortisone. Furthermore, little is known about the potential moderating roles of obstetric risk and fetal sex in the relationship between maternal stress and gestational length. This gap in knowledge is particularly evident for rural women who typically experience chronic multiple stressors during pregnancy. We explored the relationship of hormonal and psychological stress to gestational length and the effects of obstetric risks and fetal sex on this relationship among Kenyan pregnant women. Methods The sample included 130 women recruited between 22 to 28 weeks gestation. They completed a clinical and sociodemographic questionnaire together with the Perceived Stress Scale and provided a hair sample for cortisol and cortisone assay. Women underwent an ultrasound to assess weeks of gestation. At delivery, their pregnancy-related health problems were identified using information extracted from medical records to compile each woman's number of pregnancy risks on the Obstetric Medical Risk Index (OMRI). Results Perceived stress and hair cortisol were not significant predictors of gestational length. However, a greater number of obstetric risks on the OMRI was associated with shorter gestational length. This effect was further explained by the interaction between obstetric risk and hair cortisone (B = 0.709, p = 0.02). Hair cortisone levels of mothers who had a shorter gestation were significantly higher in mothers with 2 or more risks on the OMRI but not among mothers with only one or no risks (t = 2.39, p = 0.02). Fetal sex had no relationship to gestational length and also had no moderating effect on the relationship between any stress-related metric and gestational length. Conclusion Cortisone levels may increase in anticipation of shorter gestation as a compensatory response to increased obstetric risk. Elevated cortisone may be a more sensitive marker of risk for early delivery than cortisol or psychological stress, with salience for both the male and female fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joseph Musana
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
- *Correspondence: Joseph Musana
| | - Craig R. Cohen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Miriam Kuppermann
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Roy Gerona
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Anthony Wanyoro
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Kenyatta University, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Aguilar
- Clinical Toxicology and Environmental Biomonitoring Lab, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Nicole Santos
- Institute for Global Health Sciences, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| | - Marleen Temmerman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Aga Khan University Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Sandra J. Weiss
- Department of Community Health Systems, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
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Caparros-Gonzalez RA, Lynn F, Alderdice F, Peralta-Ramirez MI. Cortisol levels versus self-report stress measures during pregnancy as predictors of adverse infant outcomes: a systematic review. Stress 2022; 25:189-212. [PMID: 35435113 DOI: 10.1080/10253890.2022.2059348] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Systematically review existing evidence to (1) identify the association between self-report stress and cortisol levels measured during pregnancy; and, (2) assess their association with adverse infant outcomes to determine which is the better predictor. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Search terms focused on pregnancy, psychological stress and cortisol. Nine electronic databases were searched, in addition to reference lists of relevant papers. Eligibility criteria consisted of studies that included measurement of self-reported psychological stress, cortisol and assessed their associations with any infant-related outcome. Further limits included studies published in English or Spanish with human female participants. A meta-regression was not feasible due to differences in study samples, measurement tools employed, types of cortisol assessed and outcomes reported. A narrative synthesis was provided. 28 studies were eligible for inclusion. Convergent validity between self-report measures and cortisol was reported by three studies (range r = 0.12-0.41). Higher levels of self-report stress were significantly associated with intrauterine growth restriction (fetal biparietal diameter, low fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference), low gestational age at birth, low anthropometric measures (birth length, head circumference, length of the neonate), poor infant neurodevelopment (cognitive development) and potentially pathogenic gut microbiota (Clostridiaceae Clostridium, Haemophilus) in six studies. Higher cortisol levels were significantly associated with intrauterine growth restriction (fetal biparietal diameter, low fetal head circumference, abdominal circumference), low gestational age at birth, low infant birth weight, poor infant neurodevelopment (attention scores on the Network Neurobehavioral Scale) and low levels of potentially protective gut microbiota (Lactobacillus, Slackia and Actinobaculum) in 13 studies. Of the studies that assessed which type of measure was a better predictor of infant outcomes (n = 6), there was agreement that cortisol levels were statistically better at predicting adverse outcomes than self-reported stress. Self-report stress measures appear to be modest predictors of adverse infant outcomes in comparison to cortisol. A number of methodological limitations need to be addressed in future studies to help understand the relationship between cortisol and self-reported stress and how they are related to adverse infant outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael A Caparros-Gonzalez
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, University of Granada, Granada, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Biosanitaria ibs.GRANADA, Granada, Spain
| | - Fiona Lynn
- Medical Biology Center, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Queen's University Belfast, Belfast, UK
| | - Fiona Alderdice
- National Perinatal Epidemiology Unit, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
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Development and validation of an LC-MS/MS assay for the quantification of allopregnanolone and its progesterone-derived isomers, precursors, and cortisol/cortisone in pregnancy. Anal Bioanal Chem 2021; 413:5427-5438. [PMID: 34279681 DOI: 10.1007/s00216-021-03523-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2021] [Revised: 06/22/2021] [Accepted: 06/30/2021] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
Neuroactive steroids are potent neuromodulators that play a critical role in both maternal and fetal health during pregnancy. These stress-responsive compounds are reportedly low in women with perinatal depression and may be associated with poor pregnancy outcomes in animal models. Chronic stress is a risk factor for adverse birth outcomes. Simultaneous quantification of neuroactive steroids, in combination with stress hormones cortisol/cortisone, provides an opportunity to investigate the synergistic relationship of these analytes within the convenience of one assay. A simple, reliable, and sensitive method for quantifying these endogenous compounds is necessary for further research with the potential to advance clinical diagnostic tools during pregnancy. Analytes were extracted from serum with a simple protein precipitation using methanol and then separated and quantified using high-performance liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). After online extraction, analytes were separated using an Agilent Poroschell 120, 50 × 4.6 mm, 2.7 μm particle size, EC-C18 analytical column. The reliable quantification range was from 0.78 to 1000 ng/mL. QC sample inter- and intraday trueness was between 90 and 110% while inter- and intraday imprecision was less than 10%. Extracted samples were stable up to 7 days at 4 °C and extraction recovery was above 95%. Serum samples from 54 women in pregnancy were analyzed using this method. Here, we provide a validated, fast, and specific assay with sufficient sensitivity that allows for simultaneous quantification of blood serum concentrations of allopregnanolone (3α-hydroxy-5α-pregnan-20-one), pregnanolone (3α-hydroxy-5β-pregnan-20-one), epipregnanolone (3β-hydroxy-5β-pregnan-20-one), pregnenolone, progesterone, cortisol, and cortisone in pregnancy for clinical study samples and clinical diagnostics.
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Abdel-Khalik J, Hearn T, Dickson AL, Crick PJ, Yutuc E, Austin-Muttitt K, Bigger BW, Morris AA, Shackleton CH, Clayton PT, Iida T, Sircar R, Rohatgi R, Marschall HU, Sjövall J, Björkhem I, Mullins JGL, Griffiths WJ, Wang Y. Bile acid biosynthesis in Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome bypassing cholesterol: Potential importance of pathway intermediates. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2021; 206:105794. [PMID: 33246156 PMCID: PMC7816163 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2020.105794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2020] [Revised: 11/16/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Bile acids are the end products of cholesterol metabolism secreted into bile. They are essential for the absorption of lipids and lipid soluble compounds from the intestine. Here we have identified a series of unusual Δ5-unsaturated bile acids in plasma and urine of patients with Smith-Lemli-Opitz syndrome (SLOS), a defect in cholesterol biosynthesis resulting in elevated levels of 7-dehydrocholesterol (7-DHC), an immediate precursor of cholesterol. Using liquid chromatography - mass spectrometry (LC-MS) we have uncovered a pathway of bile acid biosynthesis in SLOS avoiding cholesterol starting with 7-DHC and proceeding through 7-oxo and 7β-hydroxy intermediates. This pathway also occurs to a minor extent in healthy humans, but elevated levels of pathway intermediates could be responsible for some of the features SLOS. The pathway is also active in SLOS affected pregnancies as revealed by analysis of amniotic fluid. Importantly, intermediates in the pathway, 25-hydroxy-7-oxocholesterol, (25R)26-hydroxy-7-oxocholesterol, 3β-hydroxy-7-oxocholest-5-en-(25R)26-oic acid and the analogous 7β-hydroxysterols are modulators of the activity of Smoothened (Smo), an oncoprotein that mediates Hedgehog (Hh) signalling across membranes during embryogenesis and in the regeneration of postembryonic tissue. Computational docking of the 7-oxo and 7β-hydroxy compounds to the extracellular cysteine rich domain of Smo reveals that they bind in the same groove as both 20S-hydroxycholesterol and cholesterol, known activators of the Hh pathway.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jonas Abdel-Khalik
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Thomas Hearn
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Alison L Dickson
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Peter J Crick
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Eylan Yutuc
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Karl Austin-Muttitt
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - Brian W Bigger
- Stem Cell & Neurotherapies, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PT, UK
| | - Andrew A Morris
- Willink Unit, Manchester Centre for Genomic Medicine, Manchester University Hospitals, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Cedric H Shackleton
- University of California San Francisco (UCSF) Benioff Children's Hospital, Oakland, CA 94609, USA
| | - Peter T Clayton
- Inborn Errors of Metabolism, Genetics and Genomic Medicine, UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health, 30 Guilford Street, London, WC1N 1EH, UK
| | - Takashi Iida
- Department of Chemistry, College of Humanities & Sciences, Nihon University, Sakurajousui, Setagaya, Tokyo, 156-8550, Japan
| | - Ria Sircar
- Departments of Biochemistry and Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Rajat Rohatgi
- Departments of Biochemistry and Medicine, Stanford University School of Medicine, Stanford, CA, 94305, USA
| | - Hanns-Ulrich Marschall
- Department of Molecular and Clinical Medicine, University of Gothenburg, Sahlgrenska Academy, Institute of Medicine, Gothenburg, 41345, Sweden
| | - Jan Sjövall
- Department of Medical Biochemistry and Biophysics, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, 17177, Sweden
| | - Ingemar Björkhem
- Division of Clinical Chemistry, Department of Laboratory Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Huddinge, 14186, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Jonathan G L Mullins
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK
| | - William J Griffiths
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK.
| | - Yuqin Wang
- Swansea University Medical School, ILS1 Building, Singleton Park, Swansea, SA2 8PP, Wales, UK.
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H A, Jj T, Nm S, N H, O R, Ti L, J P, V S, R P, T L, L K, H K. Prenatal maternal depressive symptoms are associated with smaller amygdalar volumes of four-year-old children. Psychiatry Res Neuroimaging 2020; 304:111153. [PMID: 32771833 DOI: 10.1016/j.pscychresns.2020.111153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2020] [Revised: 07/26/2020] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Prenatal maternal depressive symptoms are related to an increased offspring susceptibility to psychiatric disorders over the life course. Alterations in fetal brain development might partly mediate this association. The relation of prenatal depressive symptoms with child's amygdalar volumes is still underexplored, and this study aimed to address this gap. We explored the association of prenatal maternal depressive symptoms with amygdalar volumes in 28 4-year-old children (14 female). Amygdalar volumes were assessed using the volBrain pipeline and manual segmentation. Prenatal depressive symptoms were self-reported by mothers at gestational weeks 14, 24 and 34 (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale). Sex differences were probed, and possible pre- and postnatal confounders, such as maternal general anxiety, were controlled for. We observed that elevated depressive symptoms of the early second trimester, after controlling for prenatal maternal general anxiety, were significantly related to smaller right amygdalar volumes in the whole sample. Higher depressive symptoms of the third trimester were associated with significantly smaller right amygdalar volumes in boys compared to girls. Altogether, our data suggest that offspring limbic brain development might be affected by maternal depressive symptoms in early pregnancy, and might also be more vulnerable to depressive symptoms in late pregnancy in boys compared to girls.
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Affiliation(s)
- Acosta H
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Philipps University of Marburg, Rudolf-Bultmann-St. 8, 35039, Marburg, Germany.
| | - Tuulari Jj
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Turku Collegium for Science and Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK
| | - Scheinin Nm
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland.
| | - Hashempour N
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Rajasilta O
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Lavonius Ti
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Pelto J
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland
| | - Saunavaara V
- Department of Medical Physics, Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Turku PET Center, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Parkkola R
- Department of Radiology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Lähdesmäki T
- Department of Pediatric Neurology, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Karlsson L
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
| | - Karlsson H
- The FinnBrain Birth Cohort Study, Turku Brain and Mind Center, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Turku, Turku, Finland; Department of Psychiatry, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland; Centre for Population Health Research, University of Turku and Turku University Hospital, Turku, Finland
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Does the Caesarean Section Impact on 11β HSD2 and Fetal Cortisol? INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17155566. [PMID: 32752242 PMCID: PMC7432821 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17155566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 07/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Purpose: Comparison of the activity of 11beta-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase type 2 in the placenta and the umbilical cord blood cortisol level between caesarean sections with or without uterine contraction and vaginal delivery groups. Cortisol is the main stress hormone responsible for the normal adaptation of the neonate to extrauterine life. The disorders resulting from a dysfunction of the 11β-HSD 2–cortisol system can explain the higher risk of developing diseases in children born by caesarean section. Methods: 111 healthy, pregnant women in singular pregnancy at term of delivery were included into the study. The study comprised 11β-HSD 2 in placental tissue from 49 pregnant women delivering by elective caesarean section and 46 pregnant women delivering by vagina. In 16 cases of the elective caesarean section, regular uterine contractions were declared. Cortisol level was estimated in umbilical cord blood directly after delivery. Results: We found no statistically significant differences in the activity of 11β-HSD 2 in placentas delivered via caesarean sections (29.61 on average in elective caesarean sections and 26.65 on average in intrapartum caesarean sections) compared to vaginal deliveries (31.94 on average, p = 0.381), while umbilical cord blood cortisol in the elective caesarean sections group was significantly lower (29.86 on average) compared to the vaginal deliveries (55.50 on average, p < 0.001) and intrapartum caesarean sections (52.27 on average, p < 0.001). Conclusions: The model of placental 11β-HSD 2 activity and umbilical cord blood cortisol concentration seems to be significant in conditions of stress associated with natural uterine contractions in labour.
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Rothe N, Steffen J, Penz M, Kirschbaum C, Walther A. Examination of peripheral basal and reactive cortisol levels in major depressive disorder and the burnout syndrome: A systematic review. Neurosci Biobehav Rev 2020; 114:232-270. [DOI: 10.1016/j.neubiorev.2020.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Revised: 01/27/2020] [Accepted: 02/19/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
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11
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Stoye DQ, Andrew R, Grobman WA, Adam EK, Wadhwa PD, Buss C, Entringer S, Miller GE, Boardman JP, Seckl JR, Keenan-Devlin LS, Borders AEB, Reynolds RM. Maternal Glucocorticoid Metabolism Across Pregnancy: A Potential Mechanism Underlying Fetal Glucocorticoid Exposure. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5766073. [PMID: 32108902 PMCID: PMC7047583 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Across pregnancy, maternal serum cortisol levels increase up to 3-fold. It is not known whether maternal peripheral cortisol metabolism and clearance change across pregnancy or influence fetal cortisol exposure and development. OBJECTIVES The primary study objective was to compare maternal urinary glucocorticoid metabolites, as markers of cortisol metabolism and clearance, between the second and third trimester of pregnancy. Secondary objectives were to test associations of total maternal urinary glucocorticoid excretion, with maternal serum cortisol levels and offspring birth weight z score. DESIGN, PARTICIPANTS, AND SETTING A total of 151 women with singleton pregnancies, recruited from prenatal clinic at the Pittsburgh site of the Measurement of Maternal Stress (MOMS) study, had 24-hour urine collections during both the second and third trimesters. RESULTS Between the second and third trimester, total urinary glucocorticoid excretion increased (ratio of geometric means [RGM] 1.37, 95% CI 1.22-1.52, P < .001), and there was an increase in calculated 5β-reductase compared to 5α-reductase activity (RGM 3.41, 95% CI 3.04-3.83, P < .001). During the third trimester total urinary glucocorticoid excretion and serum cortisol were negatively correlated (r = -0.179, P = .029). Mean total urinary glucocorticoid excretion across both trimesters and offspring birth weight z score were positively associated (β = 0.314, P = .001). CONCLUSIONS The estimated activity of maternal enzymes responsible for cortisol metabolism change between the second and third trimester of pregnancy. Additionally, maternal peripheral metabolism and clearance of cortisol may serve as a novel mechanism affecting fetal cortisol exposure and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Q Stoye
- MRC Centre of Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Ruth Andrew
- Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - William A Grobman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Feinberg School of Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Center for Healthcare Studies, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Emma K Adam
- School of Education and Social Policy, Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - Pathik D Wadhwa
- Development, Health and Disease Research Program, University of California, Irvine, California
| | - Claudia Buss
- Development, Health and Disease Research Program, University of California, Irvine, California
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt–Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Institute of Medical Psychology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sonja Entringer
- Development, Health and Disease Research Program, University of California, Irvine, California
- Charité–Universitätsmedizin Berlin, corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin, Humboldt–Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health (BIH), Institute of Medical Psychology, Berlin, Germany
| | - Gregory E Miller
- Department of Psychology, Institute for Policy Research, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois
| | - James P Boardman
- MRC Centre of Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Jonathan R Seckl
- Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Lauren S Keenan-Devlin
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, NorthShore University Health System, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Ann E B Borders
- Center for Healthcare Studies, Institute for Public Health and Medicine, Northwestern University, Chicago, Illinois
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, NorthShore University Health System, University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine, Chicago, Illinois
| | - Rebecca M Reynolds
- MRC Centre of Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Centre for Cardiovascular Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
- Correspondence: Rebecca M. Reynolds, MA, FRCP, PHD, Centre for Cardiovascular Science, Queen’s Medical Research Institute, 47 Little France Crescent, Edinburgh, EH16 4TJ, UK. E-mail:
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12
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Edvinsson Å, Hellgren C, Kunovac Kallak T, Åkerud H, Skalkidou A, Stener-Victorin E, Fornes R, Spigset O, Lager S, Olivier J, Sundström-Poromaa I. The effect of antenatal depression and antidepressant treatment on placental tissue: a protein-validated gene expression study. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:479. [PMID: 31805950 PMCID: PMC6896358 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2586-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2019] [Accepted: 11/07/2019] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antenatal depression affects 10–20% of pregnant women. Around 2–4% of European pregnant women use antidepressant treatment, most commonly selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Poor pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and low birth weight, have been described in women with antenatal depression and in pregnant women on SSRI treatment. However, the effects of antenatal depression and antidepressant treatment on the placenta are largely unknown. The aim of this work was to compare placental gene and protein expression in healthy women, women with untreated antenatal depression and women on antidepressant treatment during pregnancy. Methods Placental samples from 47 controls, 25 depressed and 45 SSRI-treated women were analysed by means of qPCR using custom-designed TaqMan low-density arrays (TLDAs) for 44 genes previously known to be involved in the pathophysiology of depression, and expressed in the placenta. Moreover, placental protein expression was determined by means of immunohistochemistry in 37 healthy controls, 13 women with untreated depression and 21 women on antidepressant treatment. Statistical comparisons between groups were performed by one-way ANOVA or the Kruskal–Wallis test. Results Nominally significant findings were noted for HTR1A and NPY2R, where women with untreated depression displayed higher gene expression than healthy controls (p < 0.05), whereas women on antidepressant treatment had similar expression as healthy controls. The protein expression analyses revealed higher expression of HTR1A in placentas from women on antidepressant treatment, than in placentas from healthy controls (p < 0.05). Conclusion The differentially expressed HTR1A, both at the gene and the protein level that was revealed in this study, suggests the involvement of HTR1A in the effect of antenatal depression on biological mechanisms in the placenta. More research is needed to elucidate the role of depression and antidepressant treatment on the placenta, and, further, the effect on the fetus.
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Affiliation(s)
- Åsa Edvinsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Charlotte Hellgren
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Helena Åkerud
- Department of Immunology, Genetics and Pathology, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alkistis Skalkidou
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Romina Fornes
- Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, 171 77, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Olav Spigset
- Department of Clinical Pharmacology, St. Olav University Hospital, 7006, Trondheim, Norway.,Department of Clinical and Molecular Medicine, Norwegian University of Science and Technology, 7491, Trondheim, Norway
| | - Susanne Lager
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, 751 85, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Jocelien Olivier
- Neurobiology, Unit Behavioral Neuroscience, Groningen Institute for Evolutionary Life Sciences, University of Groningen, 9747, AG, Groningen, The Netherlands
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13
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Axfors C, Bränn E, Henriksson HE, Hellgren C, Kunovac Kallak T, Fransson E, Lager S, Iliadis SI, Sylvén S, Papadopoulos FC, Ekselius L, Sundström-Poromaa I, Skalkidou A. Cohort profile: the Biology, Affect, Stress, Imaging and Cognition (BASIC) study on perinatal depression in a population-based Swedish cohort. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e031514. [PMID: 31641004 PMCID: PMC6830667 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2019-031514] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE With the population-based, prospective Biology, Affect, Stress, Imaging and Cognition (BASIC) cohort, we aim to investigate the biopsychosocial aetiological processes involved in perinatal depression (PND) and to pinpoint its predictors in order to improve early detection. PARTICIPANTS From September 2009 to November 2018, the BASIC study at Uppsala University Hospital, Sweden, has enrolled 5492 women, in 6478 pregnancies, of which 46.3% first-time pregnancies and with an average age of 31.5 years. After inclusion around gestational week 16-18, participants are followed-up with data collection points around gestational week 32, at childbirth, as well as three times postpartum: after 6 weeks, 6 months and 1 year. At the last follow-up, 70.8% still remain in the cohort. FINDINGS TO DATE In addition to internet-based surveys with self-report instruments, participants contribute with biological samples, for example, blood samples (maternal and from umbilical cord), biopsies (umbilical cord and placenta) and microbiota samples. A nested case-control subsample also takes part in cognitive and emotional tests, heart rate variability tests and bioimpedance tests. Subprojects have identified various correlates of PND of psychological and obstetric origin in addition to factors of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and immune system. FUTURE PLANS In parallel with the completion of data collection (final follow-up November 2019), BASIC study data are currently analysed in multiple subprojects. Since 2012, we are conducting an ongoing follow-up study on the participants and their children up to 6 years of age (U-BIRTH). Researchers interested in collaboration may contact Professor Alkistis Skalkidou (corresponding author) with their request to be considered by the BASIC study steering committee.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cathrine Axfors
- Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Emma Bränn
- Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | | | - Theodora Kunovac Kallak
- Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Emma Fransson
- Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Microbiology, Tumor and Cell Biology, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Susanne Lager
- Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Centre for Reproductive Biology in Uppsala (CRU), Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Sara Sylvén
- Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Lisa Ekselius
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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14
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Breedh J, Comasco E, Hellgren C, Papadopoulos FC, Skalkidou A, Poromaa IS. Hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis responsiveness, startle response, and sensorimotor gating in late pregnancy. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 106:1-8. [PMID: 30927623 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.03.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2018] [Revised: 02/15/2019] [Accepted: 03/12/2019] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy, the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, the main regulator of the stress response, undergoes dramatic changes. The acoustic startle response (ASR) and the prepulse inhibition (PPI) of the startle response are neurophysiological research tools and objective measures of an individual's response to an emotional context or stressor. The ASR and PPI are influenced by psychiatric diseases characterized by anxiety symptoms and are sensitive to cortisol. Hence, the ASR and the PPI can be used to investigate the effects of pregnancy-induced endocrine changes and their contribution to affective disorders. The present study sought to investigate the association between measures of HPA-axis responsiveness, startle reactivity and sensorimotor gating during pregnancy that to date remains unknown. The eye-blink component of the ASR, and its prepulse inhibition, were measured in 107 late third trimester pregnant women. Saliva samples were collected to assess the cortisol awakening response (CAR), a measure of HPA-axis activity. Blood was sampled to measure serum levels of cortisol, cortisone and the cortisone to cortisol ratio. Ongoing anxiety disorders, sleep duration, smoking, and age were considered as potential confounders in the statistical analyses. CAR reactivity, measured as area under the curve (AUC) increase and above baseline, was positively associated with baseline startle magnitude [Cohen's d = 0.27; F (1, 105) = 4.99; p = 0.028, and Cohen's d = 0.30; F (1, 105) = 6.25; p = 0.014, respectively] as well as PPI at 86 dB [Cohen's d = 0.29; F (1, 105) = 5.93; p = 0.017; and Cohen's d = 0.34; F (1, 105) = 8.38; p = 0.005, respectively]. The observed positive correlation between startle magnitude in pregnant women and greater increase in cortisol during the awakening response may be interpreted as heightened neurophysiological reactivity, likely associated with dysregulation of the stress system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Breedh
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Erika Comasco
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | - Charlotte Hellgren
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Fotios C Papadopoulos
- Department of Neuroscience, Psychiatry, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alkistis Skalkidou
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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15
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Skalkidou A, Poromaa IS, Iliadis SI, Huizink AC, Hellgren C, Freyhult E, Comasco E. Stress-related genetic polymorphisms in association with peripartum depression symptoms and stress hormones: A longitudinal population-based study. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2019; 103:296-305. [PMID: 30776573 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2019.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/08/2018] [Revised: 02/02/2019] [Accepted: 02/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Individual differences in the response of the stress system to hormonal changes during pregnancy and the postpartum period render some women susceptible to developing depression. The present study sought to investigate peripartum depression and stress hormones in relation to stress-related genotypes. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale was used to assess peripartum depressive symptoms in a sample of 1629 women, followed from pregnancy week seventeen to six months postpartum. Genotypes of ninety-four haplotype-tag single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in sixteen genes of the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal axis pathway were analyzed and data on psychosocial and demographic factors was collected. In sub-studies, salivary cortisol awakening response in gestational week 35-39, salivary evening cortisol levels in gestational week 36 and postpartum week 6, and blood cortisol and cortisone levels in gestational week 35-39 were analyzed. SNP-set kernel association tests were performed at the gene-level, considering psychosocial and demographic factors, followed by post-hoc analyses of SNPs of significant genes. Statistically significant findings at the 0.05 p-level included SNPs in the hydroxysteroid 11-beta dehydrogenase 1 (HSD11B1) gene in relation to self-rated depression scores in postpartum week six among all participants, and serpin family A member 6 (SERPINA6) gene at the same time-point among women with de novo onset of postpartum depression. SNPs in these genes also associated with stress hormone levels during pregnancy. The present study adds knowledge to the neurobiological basis of peripartum depression by systematically assessing SNPs in stress-regulatory genes and stress-hormone levels in a population-based sample of women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alkistis Skalkidou
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
| | | | - Stavros I Iliadis
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anja C Huizink
- Section of Clinical Developmental Psychology, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, the Netherlands; School of Health and Education, University of Skövde, Sweden
| | - Charlotte Hellgren
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Eva Freyhult
- Department of Medical Science, National Bioinformatics Infrastructure Sweden, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Erika Comasco
- Department of Neuroscience, Science for Life Laboratory, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.
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16
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Maternal body mass index moderates antenatal depression effects on infant birthweight. Sci Rep 2019; 9:6213. [PMID: 30996270 PMCID: PMC6470129 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-019-42360-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2018] [Accepted: 03/13/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity and depression are two common medical problems that pregnant women present with in antenatal care. Overweight and obesity at the beginning of the pregnancy, and excessive weight gain during pregnancy, are independent explanatory variables for fetal birthweight and independent risk factors for giving birth to a large for gestational age (LGA) infant. However, the effect of co-morbid depression has received little attention. This study set out to investigate if maternal body mass index (BMI) in early pregnancy moderates antenatal depression effects on infant birthweight. 3965 pregnant women participated in this longitudinal cohort study, where cases (n = 178) had Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS) score ≥ 17 in gestational week 17 or 32, and remaining women (n = 3787) were used as controls. The influence of maternal BMI and antenatal depressive symptoms on standardized birthweight was evaluated by analysis of covariance, with adjustment for relevant confounders. Depressed women with BMI 25.0 kg/m2 or more gave birth to infants with significantly greater standardized birthweight than non-depressed overweight women, whereas the opposite pattern was noted in normal weight women (BMI by antenatal depressive symptoms interaction; F(1,3839) = 6.32; p = 0.012. The increased birthweight in women with co-prevalent overweight and depressive symptoms was not explained by increased weight gain during the pregnancy. Maternal BMI at the beginning of pregnancy seems to influence the association between antenatal depressive symptoms and infant birthweight, but in opposite directions depending on whether the pregnant women is normal weight or overweight. Further studies are needed to confirm our finding.
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17
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García-Blanco A, Diago V, Hervás D, Ghosn F, Vento M, Cháfer-Pericás C. Anxiety and depressive symptoms, and stress biomarkers in pregnant women after in vitro fertilization: a prospective cohort study. Hum Reprod 2019; 33:1237-1246. [PMID: 29796614 DOI: 10.1093/humrep/dey109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2017] [Accepted: 04/30/2018] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
STUDY QUESTION Does in vitro fertilization (IVF) affect the course of anxiety and depressive symptoms as well as physiological stress from pregnancy to postpartum period? SUMMARY ANSWER IVF mothers have more anxiety symptoms and higher stress biomarker levels but fewer depression symptoms than natural conception mothers at the third trimester of pregnancy, but these differences are negligible during postpartum period. WHAT IS KNOWN ALREADY Cross-sectional studies have found an association between IVF and high stress levels during the prenatal period. There is, however, no follow-up study about the IVF effect on the mental health status from pregnancy to postpartum, adopting simultaneous measurement of self-reported symptoms and stress biomarkers. STUDY DESIGN, SIZE, DURATION This is a prospective cohort study. A total of 243 eligible women were recruited during the third trimester of pregnancy (60 women after successful IVF and 183 who conceived naturally). The recruitment was performed during a 12-month period, and the follow-up was carried out until 3 months after delivery. PARTICIPANTS/MATERIALS, SETTING, METHODS This study was performed in the Division of Obstetrics in a regional referral center. The State scale of the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI-S) and the Beck Depression Inventory-Sort Form (BDI/SF) were used as anxiety and depression indicators, respectively; salivary cortisol and α-amylase levels as stress biomarkers. Anxiety, depression and stress biomarkers were measured at the third trimester of pregnancy (T1), at 48 h after birth (T2) and at 3 months after birth (T3). Associations with IVF were assessed using ordinal mixed models for anxiety and depressive symptoms and linear quantile models for stress biomarkers. MAIN RESULTS AND THE ROLE OF CHANCE Relative to natural conception mothers, IVF mothers had higher STAI-S scores at T1 (P = 0.016, odds ratio (OR) = 2.46), and this difference remained steady from T1 to T2 (P = 0.37, OR = 0.70) and from T2 to T3 (P = 0.36, OR = 0.69). In the case of depressive symptoms, the IVF group obtained lower BDI/SF scores at T1 (P < 0.001, OR = 0.192). This difference was apparently reduced from T1 to T2 (P = 0.072, OR = 2.21) and remained constant from T2 to T3 (P = 0.107, OR = 2.09). It is important to note that whereas the mean BDI/SF score was not clinically significant for any group (it was lower than the cut-off 4), the mean STAI-S score of the IVF group at T1 was so (it was higher than the cut-off 19). As for stress biomarkers, IVF mothers had higher cortisol levels at T1 (P = 0.043, Δlog(cortisol) = 0.88) compared to natural conceptions. From T1 to T2 cortisol levels of both groups increased at the relatively same rate (P = 0.81, Δlog(cortisol) = -0.16). However, the progressions tended to be different from T2 to T3, with IVF mothers exhibiting a sharp decrease in cortisol levels (P = 0.059, Δlog(cortisol) = -0.94), while natural conceptions value remained steady. In the case of α-amylase, there were no statistically significant differences between both groups at T1 (P = 0.7, Δlog(α-amylase) = -0.095). On the contrary, while IVF mothers showed sustained α-amylase levels across the time, the progression was different in the natural conception group, who showed a decrease in α-amylase levels from T1 to T2 (P = 0.049, Δlog(α-amylase) = 0.596) and a non-significant increase from T2 to T3 (P = 0.53, Δlog(α-amylase) = -0.283). LIMITATIONS REASON FOR CAUTION Since this follow-up study has been carried out from the third trimester of pregnancy, the findings cannot be generalized to extremely preterm births. WIDER IMPLICATIONS OF THE FINDINGS IVF women may have lower depressive symptoms for being pregnant. However, due to the potential pregnancy complications associated with IVF, they may have higher physiological stress and clinically significant anxiety at the third trimester of pregnancy but not during postpartum. Taking into account that both prenatal high maternal cortisol levels and prenatal clinically significant anxiety increase the risk of disturbance in the fetal neurodevelopment, psychological therapy should be extended during pregnancy in IVF women. STUDY FUNDING/COMPETING INTEREST(S) MV funded by FIS PI17/0131 grant from the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (ISCIII) and RETICS funded by the PN 2018-2011, and the European Regional Development Fund, reference RD16/0022/0001; AG-B funded by a 'Juan Rodés' Grant (JR17/00003) from the ISCIII. CC-P funded by a 'Miguel Servet I' Grant (CP16/00082) from the ISCIII. Authors declare no competing interests.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana García-Blanco
- Neonatal Research Unit, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Vicente Diago
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | - David Hervás
- Biostatistics Unit, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain
| | | | - Máximo Vento
- Neonatal Research Unit, Health Research Institute La Fe, Valencia, Spain.,Division of Neonatology, Hospital Universitari i Politècnic La Fe, Valencia, Spain
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18
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Hesselman S, Wikström AK, Skalkidou A, Sundström-Poromaa I, Wikman A. Neighborhood deprivation and adverse perinatal outcomes in Sweden: A population-based register study. Acta Obstet Gynecol Scand 2019; 98:1004-1013. [PMID: 30779118 DOI: 10.1111/aogs.13582] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2018] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Neighborhood deprivation has been associated with adverse perinatal outcomes but it is unclear to what extent maternal and social risk factors explain the association and how a stressful environment per se contributes. MATERIAL AND METHODS A population-based register study including 218 030 deliveries in Sweden between January 2013 and July 2017 was conducted. Exposure was living in a deprived or severely deprived area defined by the National Operations Department of the Swedish Police Authority. Adverse perinatal outcomes included preterm births, small-for-gestational-age births and stillbirths. A propensity score-based method was used to control for individual baseline characteristics. Associations were investigated with logistic regression analyses and risk estimates are presented as crude (OR) and adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI). RESULTS Living in a deprived neighborhood in Sweden was associated with extremely preterm births (deprived area OR 1.50, 95% CI 1.07-2.11, severely deprived OR 1.90, 95% CI 1.40-2.58), small-for-gestational-age birth (deprived OR 1.45, 95% CI 1.31-1.60, severely deprived OR 1.85, 95% CI 1.69-2.03) and stillbirth (deprived OR 1.62, 95% CI 1.17-2.26, severely deprived OR 1.56, 95% CI 1.11-2.19). After accounting for individual maternal and social risk factors, the risk of small for gestational age in severely deprived areas remained (aOR 1.45, 95% CI, 1.19-1.75). CONCLUSIONS The contextual effect of living in a deprived neighborhood on the risk of extremely preterm births, small-for-gestational-age births and stillbirths was to a high extent explained by individual factors of women residing in exposed areas, yet remained for small-for-gestational-age births in severely deprived areas after adjustment for maternal and social risk factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Susanne Hesselman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Center for Clinical Research Dalarna, Falun, Sweden
| | - Anna-Karin Wikström
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Alkistis Skalkidou
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | | | - Anna Wikman
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
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19
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Maternal stress and placental function, a study using questionnaires and biomarkers at birth. PLoS One 2018; 13:e0207184. [PMID: 30439989 PMCID: PMC6237336 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0207184] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2018] [Accepted: 10/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Prenatal stress affects the health of the pregnant woman and the fetus. Cortisol blood levels are elevated in pregnancy, and fetal exposure to cortisol is regulated by the placenta enzyme 11β-HSD2. A decrease in enzyme activity allows more maternal cortisol to pass through the placental barrier. Combining the fetal and maternal cortisol to cortisone ratio into the adjusted fetal cortisol exposure (AFCE) represents the activity of the enzyme 11β-HSD2 in the placenta. Aim To investigate the effect of prenatal maternal stress on the ratio of cortisol and cortisone in maternal and fetal blood at birth in a normal population. Method Maternal self-reported stress was assessed at one time-point, as late in the pregnancy as convenient for the participant, using the Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS-42), Pregnancy Related Anxiety (PRA), and Major Life Events during pregnancy. The study included 273 participants from Copenhagen University Hospital. Maternal and umbilical cord blood was sampled directly after birth and cortisol and cortisone concentrations were quantified using UPLC chromatography. Data were analyzed in a five-step regression model with addition of possible confounders. The primary outcome was AFCE, and plasma concentrations of maternal and fetal cortisol and cortisone were secondary outcomes. Results Significant associations were seen for the primary outcome AFCE and the plasma concentrations of maternal cortisol and fetal cortisone with exposure to Pregnancy Related Anxiety (PRA), though the associations were reduced when adjusting for birth related variables, especially delivery mode. The weight of the placenta affected the associations of exposures on AFCE, but not plasma concentrations of cortisol and cortisone in mother and fetus. Moreover, the study demonstrated the importance of delivery mode and birth strain on cortisol levels right after delivery. Conclusion Our main finding was associations between PRA and AFCE, which shows the effect of maternal stress on placental cortisol metabolism.
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Lower inflammatory markers in women with antenatal depression brings the M1/M2 balance into focus from a new direction. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 80:15-25. [PMID: 28292683 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.02.027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2016] [Revised: 02/26/2017] [Accepted: 02/27/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antenatal depression and use of serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRI) in pregnancy have both been associated with an increased risk of poor pregnancy outcomes, such as preterm birth and impaired fetal growth. While the underlying biological pathways for these complications are poorly understood, it has been hypothesized that inflammation may be a common physiological pathway. The aim of the present study was to assess peripheral inflammatory markers in healthy women, women with antenatal depression, and in women using SSRI during pregnancy. METHODS 160 healthy pregnant controls, 59 women with antenatal depression and 39 women on treatment with SSRIs were included. The relative levels of 92 inflammatory proteins were analyzed by proximity extension assay technology. RESULTS Overall, 23 of the inflammatory markers were significantly lower in women with antenatal depression and in women on treatment with SSRIs in comparison with the healthy controls. No difference in any of the inflammatory markers was observed between women with antenatal depression and those who were using SSRI. Top three inflammatory markers that were down-regulated in women with antenatal depression were TNF-related apoptosis-inducing ligand (TRAIL), p=0.000001, macrophage colony-stimulating factor 1 (CSF-1), p=0.000004, and fractalkine (CX3CL1), p=0.000005. Corresponding inflammatory markers in SSRI users were CSF-1, p=0.000011, vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A), p=0.000016, and IL-15 receptor subunit alpha (IL-15RA), p=0.000027. The inflammatory markers were negatively correlated with cortisone serum concentrations in controls, but not in the cases. Differential DNA methylation of was found for seven of these inflammatory markers in an independent epigenetics cohort. CONCLUSION Women with antenatal depression or on SSRI treatment have lower levels of a number of peripheral inflammatory markers than healthy pregnant controls. Hypothetically, this could be due to dysregulated switch to the pro-M2 milieu that characterizes normal third trimester pregnancy. However, longitudinal blood sampling is needed to elucidate whether the presumably dysregulated M2 shift is driving the development of antenatal depression or is a result of the depression.
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Kosicka K, Siemiątkowska A, Pałka D, Szpera-Goździewicz A, Bręborowicz GH, Główka FK. Detailed analysis of cortisol, cortisone and their tetrahydro- and allo-tetrahydrometabolites in human urine by LC–MS/MS. J Pharm Biomed Anal 2017; 140:174-181. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jpba.2017.03.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2017] [Revised: 03/17/2017] [Accepted: 03/18/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
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Langlois F, Lim DST, Fleseriu M. Update on adrenal insufficiency: diagnosis and management in pregnancy. Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes 2017; 24:184-192. [PMID: 28288009 DOI: 10.1097/med.0000000000000331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Adrenal insufficiency in pregnancy, although relatively rare, has significant clinical implications on both maternal and fetal outcomes. Hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis dynamics and physiological changes are complex, thus diagnosis and management of adrenal insufficiency in pregnancy remain challenging. RECENT FINDINGS Studies consistently demonstrate a rise in total serum cortisol with pregnancy, but less data are available on free cortisol levels. Salivary cortisol values have been measured in normal pregnancy and in a few studies using healthy nonpregnant women controls. Although this adds to our current knowledge of hypothalamo-pituitary-adrenal axis changes in pregnancy, clear-cut cortisol reference ranges are yet to be established. Serum cortisol and the cosyntropin stimulation test (albeit with higher peak cortisol thresholds) are currently the diagnostic tests of choice. Hydrocortisone is the preferred glucocorticoid replacement in pregnancy as it is inactivated by placental 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2; dose titration may be required, but should be individualized depending on clinical course and mode of delivery. SUMMARY Further studies on the long-term effects of maternal glucocorticoid regimens on the fetus and potential modulators of fetal glucocorticoid sensitivity and placental 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase 2 are needed and will be useful in guiding clinical management strategies in pregnant women with adrenal insufficiency.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fabienne Langlois
- aDivision of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism, Department of Medicine bDepartment of Neurological Surgery, Oregon Health & Science University, Portland, Oregon, USA
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Wilson M, Thayer Z. Maternal salivary cortisone to cortisol ratio in late pregnancy: An improved method for predicting offspring birth weight. Psychoneuroendocrinology 2017; 78:10-13. [PMID: 28131073 DOI: 10.1016/j.psyneuen.2016.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2016] [Revised: 11/30/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Overexposure to maternal cortisol in utero has been associated with lower birth weight of offspring. In order to regulate fetal exposure to this hormone, placental expression of 11-β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase-2, an enzyme that converts active cortisol to inactive cortisone, increases across pregnancy. Because of this increase in 11-βHSD2 activity, measuring maternal cortisol in isolation may not reflect actual fetal exposure to the hormone. Previous work by Hellgren et al. (2016) has shown that maternal serum cortisone:cortisol ratio was a better predictor of offspring birth weight than cortisol measured in isolation. This paper sought to replicate these results when examining maternal salivary cortisone:cortisol ratio. Data come from 55 pregnant women from Auckland, New Zealand. Cortisol and cortisone were measured in saliva samples collected at waking and prior to going to sleep on two consecutive weekdays between 34 and 36 weeks of gestation. We found that salivary cortisol and cortisone followed the expected diurnal rhythm and that cortisone was higher than cortisol at both times of day. Maternal bedtime cortisone:cortisol ratio was significantly and inversely related to offspring birth weight. However, waking and bedtime cortisol, as well as waking cortisone:cortisol ratio, were unrelated to birth weight. These results show that maternal salivary cortisone:cortisol ratio, like serum cortisone:cortisol ratio, is a more sensitive biomarker for predicting infant birth weight than cortisol measured in isolation. This ratio could be a valuable, minimally-invasive measurement for future studies interested in understanding the relationship between maternal HPA-axis function and offspring birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meredith Wilson
- Department of Anthropology, University of Colorado, Denver, CO, United States
| | - Zaneta Thayer
- Department of Anthropology, Dartmouth College, Hanover, NH, United States.
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