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Page L, Younge N, Freemark M. Hormonal Determinants of Growth and Weight Gain in the Human Fetus and Preterm Infant. Nutrients 2023; 15:4041. [PMID: 37764824 PMCID: PMC10537367 DOI: 10.3390/nu15184041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Revised: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 09/13/2023] [Indexed: 09/29/2023] Open
Abstract
The factors controlling linear growth and weight gain in the human fetus and newborn infant are poorly understood. We review here the changes in linear growth, weight gain, lean body mass, and fat mass during mid- and late gestation and the early postnatal period in the context of changes in the secretion and action of maternal, placental, fetal, and neonatal hormones, growth factors, and adipocytokines. We assess the effects of hormonal determinants on placental nutrient delivery and the impact of preterm delivery on hormone expression and postnatal growth and metabolic function. We then discuss the effects of various maternal disorders and nutritional and pharmacologic interventions on fetal and perinatal hormone and growth factor production, growth, and fat deposition and consider important unresolved questions in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Page
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - Noelle Younge
- Neonatology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
| | - Michael Freemark
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA;
- The Duke Molecular Physiology Institute, Duke University Medical Center, Durham, NC 27710, USA
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Hjort L, Wewer Albrechtsen NJ, Minja D, Rasmussen C, Møller SL, Lusingu J, Theander T, Bygbjerg IC, Schmiegelow C, Grunnet LG. Cord Blood FGF-21 and GDF-15 Levels Are Affected by Maternal Exposure to Moderate to Severe Anemia and Malaria. J Endocr Soc 2023; 7:bvad120. [PMID: 37795192 PMCID: PMC10546908 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvad120] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 10/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Context Anemia and malaria are global health problems affecting >50% of pregnant women in sub-Saharan Africa and are associated with intrauterine growth restriction. The hormones fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF-21) and growth differentiation factor 15 (GDF-15) are involved in metabolic regulation and are expressed in the placenta. No studies exist on FGF-21 and GDF-15 responses to exposures of malaria and anemia in pregnancy. Objective and Methods Using a prospective, longitudinal pregnancy and birth cohort of women with an average age of 26 years from a rural region in northeastern Tanzania, we examined if FGF-21 and GDF-15 levels in maternal blood at week 33 ± 2 (n = 301) and in cord blood at birth (n = 353), were associated with anemia and malaria exposure at different time points in pregnancy and with neonatal anthropometry. Results Among mothers at gestation week 33 ± 2, lower FGF-21 levels were observed after exposure to malaria in the first trimester, but not anemia, whereas GDF-15 levels at week 33 ± 2 were not associated with malaria nor anemia. In cord blood, moderate to severe anemia at any time point in pregnancy was associated with higher levels of FGF-21, whereas malaria exposure in the third trimester was associated with lower FGF-21 levels in cord blood. Negative associations were observed between cord blood FGF-21 and GDF-15 levels and neonatal skinfold thicknesses and birthweight. Conclusion Our results suggest that moderate to severe anemia throughout pregnancy associates with higher FGF-21 levels, and malaria in last trimester associates with lower FGF-21 levels, in the neonates, thereby potentially affecting the future cardiometabolic health of the child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Hjort
- Department of Obstetrics, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Basic Metabolic Research, Metabolic Epigenetics Group, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Nicolai J Wewer Albrechtsen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
- Departments of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
- Novo Nordisk Foundation Center for Protein Research, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Daniel Minja
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Center, Tanga 5004, Tanzania
| | - Christine Rasmussen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
- Departments of Clinical Biochemistry, Bispebjerg and Frederiksberg Hospitals, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Sofie Lykke Møller
- Department of Public Health, Section of Global Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - John Lusingu
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Center, Tanga 5004, Tanzania
| | - Thor Theander
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
| | - Ib Christian Bygbjerg
- Department of Public Health, Section of Global Health, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
| | - Christentze Schmiegelow
- Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Centre for Medical Parasitology, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen 2200, Denmark
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen 2100, Denmark
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Davidson EM, Simpson JA, Fowkes FJI. The interplay between maternal-infant anemia and iron deficiency. Nutr Rev 2023; 81:480-491. [PMID: 36111815 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuac066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy is a major public health problem known to cause maternal morbidity and adverse birth outcomes, and it may also have lasting consequences on infant development. However, the impact of the maternal hematological environment on fetal and infant hemoglobin and iron stores in the first year of life remains unclear. This review of the epidemiological evidence found that severe maternal iron deficiency anemia in pregnancy is associated with lower ferritin, and to a lesser degree hemoglobin levels, in infants at birth. Emerging data also suggests that severe anemia in pregnancy increases the risk of iron deficiency and anemia in infants 6-12 months of age, although longitudinal studies are limited. Effective anemia prevention in pregnancy, such as iron supplementation, could reduce the risk of infant anemia and iron deficiency during the first year of life; however, more evidence is needed to determine the functional impact of iron supplementation in pregnancy on infant hematological indices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eliza M Davidson
- are with the Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,are with the Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Julie A Simpson
- are with the Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
| | - Freya J I Fowkes
- are with the Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Program, Burnet Institute, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,are with the Centre for Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, The University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia.,is with the Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Hatem G, Hjort L, Asplund O, Minja DTR, Msemo OA, Møller SL, Lavstsen T, Groth-Grunnet L, Lusingu JPA, Hansson O, Christensen DL, Vaag AA, Artner I, Theander T, Groop L, Schmiegelow C, Bygbjerg IC, Prasad RB. Mapping the Cord Blood Transcriptome of Pregnancies Affected by Early Maternal Anemia to Identify Signatures of Fetal Programming. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2022; 107:1303-1316. [PMID: 35021220 PMCID: PMC9016468 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgac010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Anemia during early pregnancy (EP) is common in developing countries and is associated with adverse health consequences for both mothers and children. Offspring of women with EP anemia often have low birth weight, which increases risk for cardiometabolic diseases, including type 2 diabetes (T2D), later in life. OBJECTIVE We aimed to elucidate mechanisms underlying developmental programming of adult cardiometabolic disease, including epigenetic and transcriptional alterations potentially detectable in umbilical cord blood (UCB) at time of birth. METHODS We leveraged global transcriptome- and accompanying epigenome-wide changes in 48 UCB from newborns of EP anemic Tanzanian mothers and 50 controls to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in UCB exposed to maternal EP anemia. DEGs were assessed for association with neonatal anthropometry and cord insulin levels. These genes were further studied in expression data from human fetal pancreas and adult islets to understand their role in beta-cell development and/or function. RESULTS The expression of 137 genes was altered in UCB of newborns exposed to maternal EP anemia. These putative signatures of fetal programming, which included the birth weight locus LCORL, were potentially mediated by epigenetic changes in 27 genes and associated with neonatal anthropometry. Among the DEGs were P2RX7, PIK3C2B, and NUMBL, which potentially influence beta-cell development. Insulin levels were lower in EP anemia-exposed UCB, supporting the notion of developmental programming of pancreatic beta-cell dysfunction and subsequently increased risk of T2D in offspring of mothers with EP anemia. CONCLUSIONS Our data provide proof-of-concept on distinct transcriptional and epigenetic changes detectable in UCB from newborns exposed to maternal EP anemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gad Hatem
- Genomics, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University Diabetes Centre, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Line Hjort
- Department of Obstetrics, Center for Pregnant Women with Diabetes, Rigshospitalet, 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Department of Endocrinology (Diabetes and Bone-Metabolic Research Unit), 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Olof Asplund
- Genomics, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University Diabetes Centre, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Daniel T R Minja
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Center, 0255 Tanga, Tanzania
| | - Omari Abdul Msemo
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Center, 0255 Tanga, Tanzania
| | - Sofie Lykke Møller
- Section of Global Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, 1353 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thomas Lavstsen
- Center for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Louise Groth-Grunnet
- Department of Endocrinology (Diabetes and Bone-Metabolic Research Unit), 2100 Copenhagen, Denmark
- Section of Global Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, 1353 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - John P A Lusingu
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Center, 0255 Tanga, Tanzania
- Center for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ola Hansson
- Genomics, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University Diabetes Centre, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Dirk Lund Christensen
- Section of Global Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, 1353 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Allan A Vaag
- Steno Diabetes Center Copenhagen, 2730 Gentofte, Denmark
| | - Isabella Artner
- Genomics, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University Diabetes Centre, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden
| | - Thor Theander
- Center for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Leif Groop
- Genomics, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University Diabetes Centre, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden
- Finnish Institute of Molecular Medicine (FIMM), 00290 Helsinki, Finland
| | - Christentze Schmiegelow
- Center for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen, 2200 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ib Christian Bygbjerg
- Section of Global Health, Department of Public Health, University of Copenhagen, 1353 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Rashmi B Prasad
- Genomics, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University Diabetes Centre, 205 02, Malmö, Sweden
- Finnish Institute of Molecular Medicine (FIMM), 00290 Helsinki, Finland
- Correspondence: Rashmi B Prasad, PhD, Genomics, Diabetes and Endocrinology, Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lund University Diabetes Centre, Jan Waldenströms gata 35, 205 02 Malmö, Sweden.
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Castro TDF, de Matos NA, de Souza ABF, Costa GDP, Perucci LO, Talvani A, Cangussú SD, Chianca-Jr DA, de Menezes RCA, Bezerra FS. Protein restriction during pregnancy affects lung development and promotes oxidative stress and inflammation in C57BL/6 mice offspring. Nutrition 2022; 101:111682. [DOI: 10.1016/j.nut.2022.111682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2021] [Revised: 03/22/2022] [Accepted: 04/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
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González-Fernández D, Nemeth E, Pons EDC, Rueda D, Sinisterra OT, Murillo E, Sangkhae V, Starr LM, Scott ME, Koski KG. INTERGROWTH-21 Identifies High Prevalence of Low Symphysis-Fundal Height in Indigenous Pregnant Women Experiencing Multiple Infections, Nutrient Deficiencies, and Inflammation: The Maternal Infections, Nutrient Deficiencies, and Inflammation (MINDI) Cohort. Curr Dev Nutr 2021; 5:nzab012. [PMID: 33898918 PMCID: PMC8053398 DOI: 10.1093/cdn/nzab012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2020] [Revised: 01/20/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2021] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In the absence of ultrasound, symphysis-fundal height (SFH) can assess maternal-fetal well-being as it is associated with gestational age, fetal weight, and amniotic fluid volume. However, other modifiers of SFH, including maternal infections, nutrient deficiencies, and inflammation (MINDI), have not been widely explored. OBJECTIVES Our objectives were 2-fold: 1) to assess prevalence of low SFH in indigenous Panamanian women using both Pan-American Health Organization (PAHO) and INTERGROWTH-21 standards and 2) to explore associations of SFH with maternal health indicators: infections (oral, skin, urogenital, nematode infections), nutrient deficiencies [protein and iron indicators (ferritin, serum iron, serum transferrin receptor, hepcidin), folate, and vitamins A, D, and B-12], and inflammation [leukocytes, C-reactive protein (CRP), cytokines]. METHODS For this cross-sectional study, low-SFH-for-gestational-age was assessed using PAHO and INTERGROWTH <10th centile in 174 women at ≥16 weeks of gestation. Bootstrapping selected MINDI variables for inclusion in multivariable fractional polynomial (MFP) logistic regressions for low SFH. Associations of MINDI variables with hepcidin were also investigated. RESULTS Prevalence of low SFH was 8% using PAHO, but using INTERGROWTH, 50.6% had SFH <10th centile, including 37.9% <3rd centile. Both PAHO-SFH <10th centile and INTERGROWTH-SFH <3rd centile were associated with higher hepcidin (OR = 1.12, P = 0.008, and OR = 3.04, P = 0.001, respectively) and with lower TNF-α (OR = 0.73, P = 0.012, and OR = 0.93, P = 0.015, respectively). Wood-smoke exposure increased the odds of PAHO-SFH <10th centile (OR = 1.19, P = 0.009), whereas higher BMI decreased the odds of INTERGROWTH-SFH <3rd centile (OR = 0.87, P = 0.012). Lower pulse pressure (OR = 0.90, P = 0.009) and lower inflammatory responses [lower lymphocytes (OR = 0.21, P = 0.026), IL-17 (OR = 0.89, P = 0.011)] distinguished SFH <3rd centile from SFH ≥3rd to <10th centiles using INTERGROWTH-21 standards. The MFP regression for hepcidin controlling for SFH (adjusted R 2 = 0.40, P = 0.001) revealed associations with indicators of inflammation (CRP, P < 0.0001; IL-17, P = 0.012), acidic urinary pH (P = 0.008), and higher intake of supplements (P = 0.035). CONCLUSIONS Associations of low SFH with MINDI variables, including hepcidin, highlight its potential for early detection of multicausal in utero growth faltering.
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Affiliation(s)
- Doris González-Fernández
- School of Human Nutrition, McGill University (Macdonald Campus), Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Elizabeta Nemeth
- Center for Iron Disorders, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Delfina Rueda
- “Comarca Ngäbe-Buglé” Health Region, Ministry of Health, San Félix, Chiriquí Province, Panama
| | | | - Enrique Murillo
- Department of Biochemistry, University of Panama, Panama City, Panama
| | - Veena Sangkhae
- Center for Iron Disorders, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | - Lisa M Starr
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University (Macdonald Campus), Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Marilyn E Scott
- Institute of Parasitology, McGill University (Macdonald Campus), Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
| | - Kristine G Koski
- School of Human Nutrition, McGill University (Macdonald Campus), Ste-Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec, Canada
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Mitsuda N, J-P NA, Eitoku M, Maeda N, Fujieda M, Suganuma N. Association between maternal hemoglobin concentration and placental weight to birthweight ratio: The Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS). Placenta 2020; 101:132-138. [PMID: 32979717 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.09.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 09/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Past studies have shown that maternal anemia is associated with a heavy placenta or a higher placental weight/birthweight (PW/BW) ratio. Although these findings suggest a non-linear relationship between maternal hemoglobin concentration and PW/BW ratio, this relationship has not been closely examined. METHODS We evaluated 83,354 singletons and their mothers in a nation-wide birth cohort study, the Japan Environment and Children's Study (JECS). The associations between maternal hemoglobin concentration and placental weight, birthweight, and PW/BW ratio were assessed. RESULTS Mean placental weight was significantly higher in women with moderate or severe anemia (576 [183] g), but not in women with elevated hemoglobin levels (564 [117] g), compared with in women with normal hemoglobin levels (560 [115] g). In contrast, mean PW/BW ratio was significantly higher in women with moderate or severe anemia (0.190 [0.049]) or elevated hemoglobin levels (0.189 [0.033]) than in women with normal hemoglobin levels (0.185 [0.033]). In a regression analysis with cubic spline, a U-shaped relationship was found between maternal hemoglobin concentration and PW/BW ratio. DISCUSSION We demonstrated non-linear and concentration-dependent relationships between maternal hemoglobin concentration and placental weight, birthweight, and PW/BW ratio. Although the mechanisms underlying these associations are not fully understood, we suggest that low or elevated hemoglobin concentration may lead to placental compensatory hypertrophy and fetal growth restriction. Prevention and proper management of anemia before and during pregnancy are important for a well-functioning placenta and favorable fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naomi Mitsuda
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Japan.
| | - Naw Awn J-P
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Japan
| | - Masamitsu Eitoku
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Japan
| | - Nagamasa Maeda
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Japan
| | - Mikiya Fujieda
- Department of Pediatrics, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Japan
| | - Narufumi Suganuma
- Department of Environmental Medicine, Kochi Medical School, Kochi University, Japan
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Malinowski AK, Dziegielewski C, Keating S, Parks T, Kingdom J, Shehata N, Rizov E, D'Souza R. Placental histopathology in sickle cell disease: A descriptive and hypothesis-generating study. Placenta 2020; 95:9-17. [PMID: 32452407 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/22/2020] [Revised: 03/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/14/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Abnormal placental development is a unifying factor amongst many adverse pregnancy outcomes (APOs) in Sickle Cell Disease (SCD). Our aim was to describe placental histopathologic findings in women with SCD and their relationship with APOs, and to explore the association between antenatal sonographic findings and placental pathology. METHODS Retrospective single-centre case series of all pregnant women with SCD (January 2000-December 2017), pregnancy beyond 20 weeks' gestation, and available placenta histopathology. APOs included intrauterine fetal death, early neonatal death, preterm birth, small for gestational age, and hypertensive disorders of pregnancy. Review of images for mid-pregnancy ultrasound and one proximal to delivery was completed, blinded to clinical outcomes and histopathology results. Gross and histopathologic findings were reviewed and characterized per published classification. RESULTS Of 72 placentas, abnormalities were present in 69%, with Maternal Vascular Malperfusion (MVM) noted in 40%. APOs were encountered in 61% overall and in 79% of those with MVM. Neither SCD genotype nor severe maternal anemia had an influence on histopathologic placental features. Presence of high-resistance uterine artery waveforms at mid-trimester ultrasound was strongly associated with APOs and with abnormal findings on placental histopathology, most notably MVM. MVM was strongly associated with small for gestational age infants, preterm birth, and stillbirth. DISCUSSION MVM is the predominant lesion in placentas of women with SCD and is strongly associated with APOs. Mid-trimester ultrasound can identify a subset of women at risk. Future research into advanced imaging modalities to aid in antenatal diagnosis alongside investigations of potentially beneficial therapies is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Kinga Malinowski
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Toronto, Canada; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada.
| | - Claudia Dziegielewski
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Toronto, Canada; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Toronto, Canada
| | - Sarah Keating
- University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Pathology, Toronto, Canada
| | - Tony Parks
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Pathology, Toronto, Canada; University of Toronto, Department of Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiology, Canada
| | - John Kingdom
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Toronto, Canada; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
| | - Nadine Shehata
- University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Toronto, Canada; University of Toronto, Institute of Health Policy, Management, and Evaluation, Toronto, Canada; Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Medicine, Division of Haematology, Toronto, Canada; University Health Network, Department of Medicine, Division of Medical Oncology and Haematology, Toronto, Canada
| | - Elyssa Rizov
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Toronto, Canada; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Toronto, Canada
| | - Rohan D'Souza
- Mount Sinai Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Toronto, Canada; University of Toronto, Department of Medicine, Toronto, Canada; Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Canada
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Hjort L, Lykke Møller S, Minja D, Msemo O, Nielsen BB, Lund Christensen D, Theander T, Nielsen K, Larsen LG, Grunnet LG, Groop L, Prasad R, Lusingu J, Schmiegelow C, Bygbjerg IC. FOETAL for NCD-FOetal Exposure and Epidemiological Transitions: the role of Anaemia in early Life for Non-Communicable Diseases in later life: a prospective preconception study in rural Tanzania. BMJ Open 2019; 9:e024861. [PMID: 31122967 PMCID: PMC6537995 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-024861] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Low-income and middle-income countries such as Tanzania experience a high prevalence of non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including anaemia. Studying if and how anaemia affects growth, placenta development, epigenetic patterns and newborns' risk of NCDs may provide approaches to prevent NCDs. PARTICIPANTS The FOETALforNCD (FOetal Exposure and Epidemiological Transitions: the role of Anaemia in early Life for Non-Communicable Diseases in later life) Study is a population-based preconception, pregnancy and birth cohort study (n=1415, n=538, n=427, respectively), conducted in a rural region of North-East Tanzania. All participants were recruited prior to conception or early in pregnancy and followed throughout pregnancy as well as at birth. Data collection included: maternal blood, screening for NCDs and malaria, ultrasound in each trimester, neonatal anthropometry at birth and at 1 month of age, cord blood, placental and cord biopsies for stereology and epigenetic analyses. FINDINGS TO DATE At preconception, the average age, body mass index and blood pressure of the women were 28 years, 23 kg/m2 and 117/75 mm Hg, respectively. In total, 458 (36.7%) women had anaemia (haemoglobin Hb <12 g/dL) and 34 (3.6%) women were HIV-positive at preconception. During pregnancy 359 (66.7%) women had anaemia of which 85 (15.8%) women had moderate-to-severe anaemia (Hb ≤9 g/dL) and 33 (6.1%) women had severe anaemia (Hb ≤8 g/dL). In total, 185 (34.4%) women were diagnosed with malaria during pregnancy. FUTURE PLANS The project will provide new knowledge on how health, even before conception, might modify the risk of developing NCDs and how to promote better health during pregnancy. The present project ended data collection 1 month after giving birth, but follow-up is continuing through regular monitoring of growth and development and health events according to the National Road Map Strategic Plan in Tanzania. This data will link fetal adverse event to childhood development, and depending on further grant allocation, through a life course follow-up.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Hjort
- Department of Endocrinology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Sofie Lykke Møller
- Section of Global Health, Departmentof Public Health, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Daniel Minja
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research centre, Tanga, United Republic of Tanzania
| | - Omari Msemo
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research centre, Tanga, United Republic of Tanzania
| | | | - Dirk Lund Christensen
- Section of Global Health, Departmentof Public Health, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Thor Theander
- Center for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Karsten Nielsen
- Department of Histopathology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Louise Groth Grunnet
- Department of Endocrinology, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, Denmark
- Section of Global Health, Departmentof Public Health, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Leif Groop
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lunds Universitet, Lund, Sweden
- Finnish Institute of Molecular Medicine, Helsinki University, Helsinki, Finland
| | - Rashmi Prasad
- Department of Clinical Sciences, Clinical Research Centre, Lunds Universitet, Lund, Sweden
| | - John Lusingu
- National Institute for Medical Research, Tanga Research centre, Tanga, United Republic of Tanzania
- Center for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Christentze Schmiegelow
- Center for Medical Parasitology, Department of Immunology and Microbiology, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - Ib C Bygbjerg
- Section of Global Health, Departmentof Public Health, Copenhagen University, Copenhagen, Denmark
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Delaney KM, Guillet R, Fleming RE, Ru Y, Pressman EK, Vermeylen F, Nemeth E, O'Brien KO. Umbilical Cord Serum Ferritin Concentration is Inversely Associated with Umbilical Cord Hemoglobin in Neonates Born to Adolescents Carrying Singletons and Women Carrying Multiples. J Nutr 2019; 149:406-415. [PMID: 30770543 PMCID: PMC6398393 DOI: 10.1093/jn/nxy286] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2018] [Revised: 09/12/2018] [Accepted: 10/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been proposed that the fetus prioritizes iron for hemoglobin production over delivery to tissues. However, few studies have evaluated the interrelations between hemoglobin and multiple iron status biomarkers in umbilical cord blood. A full understanding is needed of how these parameters influence each other within cord blood to fully interpret iron and hematologic status at birth. OBJECTIVES We evaluated the determinants of neonatal hemoglobin and assessed the interrelations between hemoglobin, serum iron status indicators, and serum iron regulatory hormones in healthy neonates. METHODS This was an observational study that assessed umbilical cord hemoglobin (Hb), serum ferritin (SF), erythropoietin (EPO), soluble transferrin receptor (sTfR), serum iron, hepcidin, vitamin B-12, folate, IL-6, and CRP measured in 234 neonates born to adolescents or to women carrying multiples. Correlations between these indicators were evaluated and mediation models consistent with the observed significant determinants of cord Hb concentrations were developed. RESULTS A highly significant inverse association was found between cord SF and Hb concentrations that was not attributable to neonatal or maternal inflammation (as measured by IL-6 and CRP). The inverse association was present in the combined cohort, as well as in the adolescent and multiples cohorts independently. Mediation analyses found that EPO and hepcidin had significant indirect effects on cord Hb, associations that are explicable by mediation through SF and sTfR. CONCLUSION In contrast to observations made in older infants, a highly significant inverse association between Hb and SF, as well positive associations between Hb and both sTfR and EPO, were observed in umbilical cord blood from neonates born to adolescents or women carrying multiples. These findings, combined with review of the published literature, indicate a need for analysis of the relations between multiple parameters to assess iron and hematologic status at birth. These clinical trials were registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT01582802 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01582802) and NCT01019902 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT01019902).
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ronnie Guillet
- Department of Pediatrics Division of Neonatology, The University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY
| | - Robert E Fleming
- Division of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine, Saint Louis School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO
| | - Yuan Ru
- School of Public Health, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Eva K Pressman
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Rochester School of Medicine, Rochester, NY
| | | | - Elizabeta Nemeth
- Department of Medicine, University of California Los Angeles, Los Angeles, CA
| | - Kimberly O O'Brien
- Division of Nutritional Sciences, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY,Address correspondence to KOO (e-mail: )
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11
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Larsen S, Bjelland EK, Haavaldsen C, Eskild A. Placental weight in pregnancies with high or low hemoglobin concentrations. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2016; 206:48-52. [PMID: 27614676 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2016.08.039] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To study the associations of maternal hemoglobin concentrations with placental weight and placental to birthweight ratio. STUDY DESIGN In this retrospective cohort study, we included all singleton pregnancies during the years 1998-2013 at a large public hospital in Norway (n=57062). We compared mean placental weight and placental to birthweight ratio according to maternal hemoglobin concentrations: <9g/dl, 9-13.5g/dl or >13.5g/dl. The associations of maternal hemoglobin concentrations with placental weight and placental to birthweight ratio were estimated by linear regression analyses, and adjustments were made for gestational age at birth, preeclampsia, parity, maternal age, diabetes, body mass index, smoking, offspring sex and year of birth. RESULTS In pregnancies with maternal hemoglobin concentrations <9g/dl, mean placental weight was 701.2g (SD 160.6g), followed by 678.1g (SD 150.2g) for hemoglobin concentrations 9-13.5g/dl and 655.5g (SD 147.7g) for hemoglobin concentrations >13.5g/dl (ANOVA, p<0.001). Mean placental to birthweight ratio was highest in pregnancies with maternal hemoglobin concentrations <9g/dl (0.203 (SD 0.036)). We found no difference in mean placental to birthweight ratio for maternal hemoglobin concentrations 9-13.5g/dl (0.193 (SD 0.040)) and >13.5g/dl (0.193 (SD 0.043)). Adjustments for our study factors did not alter the estimates notably. CONCLUSIONS Placental weight decreased with increasing maternal hemoglobin concentrations. The high placental to birthweight ratio with low maternal hemoglobin concentrations suggests differences in placental growth relative to fetal growth across maternal hemoglobin concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sandra Larsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway.
| | | | - Camilla Haavaldsen
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway
| | - Anne Eskild
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway
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12
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Malaria and fetal growth alterations in the 3(rd) trimester of pregnancy: a longitudinal ultrasound study. PLoS One 2013; 8:e53794. [PMID: 23326508 PMCID: PMC3543265 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0053794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2012] [Accepted: 12/03/2012] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pregnancy associated malaria is associated with decreased birth weight, but in-utero evaluation of fetal growth alterations is rarely performed. The objective of this study was to investigate malaria induced changes in fetal growth during the 3rd trimester using trans-abdominal ultrasound. Methods An observational study of 876 pregnant women (398 primi- and secundigravidae and 478 multigravidae) was conducted in Tanzania. Fetal growth was monitored with ultrasound and screening for malaria was performed regularly. Birth weight and fetal weight were converted to z-scores, and fetal growth evaluated as fetal weight gain from the 26th week of pregnancy. Results Malaria infection only affected birth weight and fetal growth among primi- and secundigravid women. Forty-eight of the 398 primi- and secundigravid women had malaria during pregnancy causing a reduction in the newborns z-score of −0.50 (95% CI: −0.86, −0.13, P = 0.008, multiple linear regression). Fifty-eight percent (28/48) of the primi- and secundigravidae had malaria in the first half of pregnancy, but an effect on fetal growth was observed in the 3rd trimester with an OR of 4.89 for the fetal growth rate belonging to the lowest 25% in the population (95%CI: 2.03–11.79, P<0.001, multiple logistic regression). At an individual level, among the primi- and secundigravidae, 27% experienced alterations of fetal growth immediately after exposure but only for a short interval, 27% only late in pregnancy, 16.2% persistently from exposure until the end of pregnancy, and 29.7% had no alterations of fetal growth. Conclusions The effect of malaria infections was observed during the 3rd trimester, despite infections occurring much earlier in pregnancy, and different mechanisms might operate leading to different patterns of growth alterations. This study highlights the need for protection against malaria throughout pregnancy and the recognition that observed changes in fetal growth might be a consequence of an infection much earlier in pregnancy.
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13
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Peterson C. A case study of chiropractic management of pregnancy-related heartburn with postulated fetal epigenome implications. Explore (NY) 2013; 8:304-8. [PMID: 22938750 DOI: 10.1016/j.explore.2012.06.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2011] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This case study reports on chiropractic care for pregnancy-related heartburn. The purpose of this article is to relate the benefit of chiropractic treatment for one individual, to contrast chiropractic management with the biomedical standard of care for pregnancy-related heartburn, and to point to potential epigenetic implications of the standard of care. CLINICAL FEATURES A 32-year-old woman who was 24 weeks pregnant presented with persistent heartburn that she was treating with ranitidine (Zantac®) and calcium carbonate (Tums®) daily at the initiation of chiropractic care. INTERVENTION AND OUTCOME Findings of the initial examination were thoracic intersegmental dysfunction and pain upon palpation of the diaphragm, with hypertonicity noted. Therapy localization was positive for reflexes associated with the esophagus and lower esophageal sphincter, suggesting spasms. Emotional components also were identified in association with the symptoms by the use of a mind-body therapy called NeuroEmotional Technique. The patient was treated by adjusting the thoracic spine, manually releasing the diaphragm spasms, and releasing the esophageal spasm with an activator (a small hand-held instrument that creates a percussive force). The patient was symptom-free and did not use medication after the fifth treatment. She was followed throughout the remainder of her pregnancy and was asymptomatic and required no further treatment. CONCLUSIONS A larger study should investigate the effectiveness of chiropractic care for the treatment of pregnancy-related heartburn.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Peterson
- Fertile Ground Family Center, 2031 East Burnside Street, Portland, OR 97214, USA.
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14
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Schmiegelow C, Scheike T, Oesterholt M, Minja D, Pehrson C, Magistrado P, Lemnge M, Rasch V, Lusingu J, Theander TG, Nielsen BB. Development of a fetal weight chart using serial trans-abdominal ultrasound in an East African population: a longitudinal observational study. PLoS One 2012; 7:e44773. [PMID: 23028617 PMCID: PMC3448622 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0044773] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2012] [Accepted: 08/07/2012] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective To produce a fetal weight chart representative of a Tanzanian population, and compare it to weight charts from Sub-Saharan Africa and the developed world. Methods A longitudinal observational study in Northeastern Tanzania. Pregnant women were followed throughout pregnancy with serial trans-abdominal ultrasound. All pregnancies with pathology were excluded and a chart representing the optimal growth potential was developed using fetal weights and birth weights. The weight chart was compared to a chart from Congo, a chart representing a white population, and a chart representing a white population but adapted to the study population. The prevalence of SGA was assessed using all four charts. Results A total of 2193 weight measurements from 583 fetuses/newborns were included in the fetal weight chart. Our chart had lower percentiles than all the other charts. Most importantly, in the end of pregnancy, the 10th percentiles deviated substantially causing an overestimation of the true prevalence of SGA newborns if our chart had not been used. Conclusions We developed a weight chart representative for a Tanzanian population and provide evidence for the necessity of developing regional specific weight charts for correct identification of SGA. Our weight chart is an important tool that can be used for clinical risk assessments of newborns and for evaluating the effect of intrauterine exposures on fetal and newborn weight.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christentze Schmiegelow
- Centre for Medical Parasitology, Institute of International Health, Immunology, and Microbiology, University of Copenhagen and Department of Infectious Diseases, Copenhagen University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark.
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15
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Scholl TO. Maternal iron status: relation to fetal growth, length of gestation, and iron endowment of the neonate. Nutr Rev 2011; 69 Suppl 1:S23-9. [PMID: 22043878 PMCID: PMC3227006 DOI: 10.1111/j.1753-4887.2011.00429.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 114] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Anemia prevalence is highest in preschool children, women of reproductive age, and women who are pregnant. While the etiology of anemia is multifactorial, iron deficiency is the most commonly recognized nutritional cause. Observational studies imply that supplementation with iron or iron-folic acid should be started early in pregnancy, if not before, in order to prevent low-birth-weight and preterm delivery. Despite this, findings from clinical trials, even those conducted during early pregnancy, are equivocal. Recent follow-up studies of children born to women supplemented with iron-folic acid suggest that mortality is decreased and that the infant's iron endowment reflects the mother's iron status during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Theresa O Scholl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Stratford, New Jersey 08104, USA.
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Causes and mechanisms of intrauterine hypoxia and its impact on the fetal cardiovascular system: a review. Int J Pediatr 2010; 2010:401323. [PMID: 20981293 PMCID: PMC2963133 DOI: 10.1155/2010/401323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 170] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2010] [Revised: 08/04/2010] [Accepted: 09/16/2010] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Until today the role of oxygen in the development of the fetus remains controversially discussed. It is still believed that lack of oxygen in utero might be responsible for some of the known congenital cardiovascular malformations. Over the last two decades detailed research has given us new insights and a better understanding of embryogenesis and fetal growth. But most importantly it has repeatedly demonstrated that oxygen only plays a minor role in the early intrauterine development. After organogenesis has taken place hypoxia becomes more important during the second and third trimester of pregnancy when fetal growth occurs. This review will briefly adress causes and mechanisms leading to intrauterine hypoxia and their impact on the fetal cardiovascular system.
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Harding JE, Derraik JG, Bloomfield FH. Maternal undernutrition and endocrine development. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2010; 5:297-312. [PMID: 30764054 DOI: 10.1586/eem.09.62] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Maternal undernutrition, whether it occurs before conception, throughout gestation or during lactation, may lead to physiological adaptations in the fetus that will affect the health of the offspring in adult life. The timing, severity, duration and nature of the maternal nutritional insult may affect the offspring differently. Other factors determining outcome following maternal undernutrition are fetal number and gender. Importantly, effects of maternal undernutrition may be carried over into subsequent generations. This review examines the endocrine pathways disrupted by maternal undernutrition that affect the long-term postnatal health of the offspring. Maternal and childhood undernutrition are highly prevalent in low- and middle-income countries, and, in developed countries, unintentional undernutrition may arise from maternal dieting. It is, therefore, important that we better understand the mechanisms driving the long-term effects of maternal undernutrition, as well as identifying treatments to ameliorate the associated mortality and morbidity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jane E Harding
- a Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - José Gb Derraik
- b Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.
| | - Frank H Bloomfield
- c Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Private Bag 92019, Auckland, New Zealand.
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18
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Current world literature. Curr Opin Obstet Gynecol 2010; 21:541-9. [PMID: 20072097 DOI: 10.1097/gco.0b013e3283339a65] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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Abstract
Arsenic, which is commonly found in drinking water, is a potent toxicant, but little is known about its effects on maternal health. Arsenic's modes of action include enzyme inhibition and oxidative stress as well as immune, endocrine, and epigenetic effects. A couple of studies reported increased blood pressure and anemia during pregnancy. Susceptibility to arsenic is dependent on the biomethylation, which occurs via one-carbon metabolism. Methylarsonic acid and dimethylarsinic acid are main metabolites in urine, and elevated methylarsonic acid is considered a general risk factor. Arsenic easily passes the placenta, and a few human studies indicate a moderately increased risk of impaired fetal growth and increased fetal and infant mortality. The fetus and infant are probably partly protected by the increased methylation of arsenic during pregnancy and lactation; the infant is also protected by low arsenic excretion in breast milk. Early-life exposure may induce changes that will become apparent much later in life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marie Vahter
- Institute of Environmental Medicine, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden.
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20
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Ali EY, Adam GK, Ahmed S, Ali NI, Adam I. Maternal and neonatal hormonal profiles in anaemic pregnant women of eastern Sudan. J OBSTET GYNAECOL 2009; 29:311-4. [DOI: 10.1080/01443610902878767] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
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21
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Abstract
Accurate assessment of maternal micronutrient status is critical to the prevention of suboptimal micronutrient status and anaemia during pregnancy. Measurement of Fe, folate and vitamin B12 status is complicated by adaptive changes to maternal and placental physiology that markedly affect concentrations of circulating micronutrients and their functional biomarkers. Validation of new assessment methods by comparison with gold standards is often prevented by ethical considerations. Antenatal screening in the UK is predominantly concerned with the detection of anaemia, although estimation of maternal Fe stores by serum ferritin at the start of antenatal care may be a more effective preventive strategy. Functional assessment of maternal anaemia is highly problematic, so instead reference data are used for its definition. The effect of mild-to-moderate anaemia on pregnancy outcome is unclear because of the crude nature of its assessment and the influence of confounding factors. Fe-deficient erythropoiesis may be detected by assessment of erythrocyte Zn protoporphyrin and reticulocyte Hb, although such measures may be unavailable in many clinical laboratories. Serum soluble transferrin receptor is highly responsive to tissue Fe deficiency and is less affected by inflammation than most other indicators. Direct inter-assay comparison of serum and erythrocyte folate values is inadvisable since recovery rates differ greatly between methods. Serum total homocysteine is a useful functional biomarker of both folate and vitamin B12 status but during pregnancy is influenced by other factors that reduce its sensitivity. Isotope-dilution liquid chromatography-tandem MS and serum holo-transcobalamin provide new opportunities to gain detailed data of folate species and vitamin B12 fractions in large samples.
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Ose K, Miyata K, Yoshioka K, Okuno Y. Effects of hyperprolactinemia on toxicological parameters and proliferation of islet cells in male rats. J Toxicol Sci 2009; 34:151-62. [DOI: 10.2131/jts.34.151] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Keiko Ose
- Environmental Health Science Laboratory, Sumitomo Chemical Company, Ltd
| | - Kaori Miyata
- Environmental Health Science Laboratory, Sumitomo Chemical Company, Ltd
| | - Kaoru Yoshioka
- Environmental Health Science Laboratory, Sumitomo Chemical Company, Ltd
| | - Yasuyoshi Okuno
- Environmental Health Science Laboratory, Sumitomo Chemical Company, Ltd
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