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Hernáez Á, Elhakeem A, Barros H, Vrijkotte TGM, Fraser A, Lawlor DA, Magnus MC. Parental infertility and offspring cardiometabolic trajectories: a pooled analysis of three European cohorts. Fertil Steril 2024; 121:853-863. [PMID: 38237653 DOI: 10.1016/j.fertnstert.2024.01.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2023] [Revised: 01/01/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess whether parental infertility is associated with differences in cardiometabolic trajectories in offspring. DESIGN Pooled observational analysis in three prospective cohorts. SETTING Three nationwide pregnancy cohorts. PATIENTS A total of 14,609 singletons from the UK Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children, the Portuguese Geraçao 21, and the Amsterdam Born Children and Their Development study. Each cohort contributed data up to ages 26, 12, and 13 years, respectively. INTERVENTION Parental infertility is defined as time-to-pregnancy of ≥12 months (n = 1,392, 9.5%). MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Trajectories of body mass index (BMI), waist circumference, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) level, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) level, triglycerides level, and glucose level were compared in the offspring of couples with and without infertility. Trajectories were modeled using mixed-effects models with natural cubic splines adjusting for cohort, sex of the offspring, and maternal factors (age, BMI, smoking, educational level, parity, and ethnicity). Predicted levels of cardiometabolic traits up to 25 years of age were compared with parental infertility. RESULTS Offspring of couples with infertility had increasingly higher BMI (difference in mean predicted levels by age 25 years: 1.09 kg/m2, 95% confidence interval [0.68-1.50]) and suggestively higher diastolic blood pressure at age 25 years (1.21 mmHg [-0.003 to 2.43]). Their LDL-C tended to be higher, and their HDL-C values tended to be lower over time (age: 25 years, LDL-C: 4.07% [-0.79 to 8.93]; HDL-C: -2.78% [-6.99 to 1.43]). At age 17 years, offspring of couples with infertility had higher waist circumference (1.05 cm [0.11-1.99]) and systolic blood pressure (age: 17 years; 0.93 mmHg [0.044-1.81]), but these differences attenuated at later ages. No intergroup differences in triglyceride and glucose level trajectories were observed. Further adjustment for paternal age, BMI, smoking, and educational level, and both parents' histories of diabetes and hypertension in the cohort with this information available (Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children) did not attenuate intergroup differences. CONCLUSION Offspring of couples with infertility relative to those of fertile couples have increasingly higher BMI over the years, suggestively higher blood pressure levels, and tend to have greater values of LDL-C and lower values of HDL-C with age.
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Affiliation(s)
- Álvaro Hernáez
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway; Blanquerna School of Health Sciences, Universitat Ramon Llull, Barcelona, Spain; Consorcio CIBER, M.P. Enfermedades Cardiovasculares (CIBERCV), Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Ahmed Elhakeem
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Henrique Barros
- EPIUnit - Instituto de Saúde Pública, Universidade do Porto, Porto, Portugal; Laboratório para a Investigação Integrativa e Translacional em Saúde Populacional, Porto, Portugal
| | - Tanja G M Vrijkotte
- Department of Public and Occupational Health, Amsterdam Public Health Research Institute, Amsterdam Reproduction and Development Research Institute, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, the Netherlands
| | - Abigail Fraser
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Deborah A Lawlor
- MRC Integrative Epidemiology Unit at the University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom; Population Health Sciences, Bristol Medical School, University of Bristol, Bristol, United Kingdom; National Institute for Health Research Bristol Biomedical Research Centre, Bristol, United Kingdom
| | - Maria C Magnus
- Centre for Fertility and Health, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
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Hetland RA, Wilsgaard T, Hopstock LA, Ariansen I, Johansson J, Jacobsen BK, Grimsgaard S. Social inequality in prevalence of NCD risk factors: a cross-sectional analysis from the population-based Tromsø Study 2015-2016. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e080611. [PMID: 38688673 PMCID: PMC11086291 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-080611] [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: 10/06/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/02/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to examine associations between educational level, serving as an indicator of socioeconomic position, and prevalence of WHO-established leading behavioural and biological risk factors for non-communicable diseases (NCDs), in middle-aged to older women and men. DESIGN Population-based cross-sectional study. SETTING All inhabitants of the municipality of Tromsø, Norway, aged ≥40 years, were invited to the seventh survey (2015-2016) of the Tromsø Study; an ongoing population-based cohort study. PARTICIPANTS Of the 32 591 invited; 65% attended, and a total of 21 069 women (53%) and men aged 40-99 years were included in our study. OUTCOME MEASURES We assessed associations between educational level and NCD behavioural and biological risk factors: daily smoking, physical inactivity (sedentary in leisure time), insufficient fruit/vegetable intake (<5 units/day), harmful alcohol use (>10 g/day in women, >20 g/day in men), hypertension, obesity, intermediate hyperglycaemia and hypercholesterolaemia. These were expressed as odds ratios (OR) per unit decrease in educational level, with 95% CIs, in women and men. RESULTS In women (results were not significantly different in men), we observed statistically significant associations between lower educational levels and higher odds of daily smoking (OR 1.69; 95% CI 1.60 to 1.78), physical inactivity (OR 1.38; 95% CI 1.31 to 1.46), insufficient fruit/vegetable intake (OR 1.54, 95% CI 1.43 to 1.66), hypertension (OR 1.25; 95% CI 1.20 to 1.30), obesity (OR 1.23; 95% CI 1.18 to 1.29), intermediate hyperglycaemia (OR 1.12; 95% CI 1.06 to 1.19), and hypercholesterolaemia (OR 1.07; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.12), and lower odds of harmful alcohol use (OR 0.75; 95% CI 0.72 to 0.78). CONCLUSION We found statistically significant educational gradients in women and men for all WHO-established leading NCD risk factors within a Nordic middle-aged to older general population. The prevalence of all risk factors increased at lower educational levels, except for harmful alcohol use, which increased at higher educational levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca A Hetland
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Tom Wilsgaard
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | | | - Inger Ariansen
- Department of Chronic Diseases, Norwegian Institute of Public Health, Oslo, Norway
| | - Jonas Johansson
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Bjarne K Jacobsen
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
- Centre for Sami Health Research, Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Sameline Grimsgaard
- Department of Community Medicine, UiT The Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
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Sletner L, Yajnik CS, Turowski G, Michelsen TM, Sommer C, Birkeland KI, Roald B, Jenum AK. Placental weight, surface area, shape and thickness - Relations with maternal ethnicity and cardio-metabolic factors during pregnancy. Placenta 2024; 148:69-76. [PMID: 38417304 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.02.002] [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: 12/19/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/09/2024] [Indexed: 03/01/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A better understanding of the determinants of placental growth is needed. Our primary aim was to explore associations between maternal ethnic origin and cardio-metabolic factors during pregnancy, and placental weight, surface area, shape and thickness. METHODS A multi-ethnic population-based cohort study of 474 pregnant women examined at mean 15 and 28 weeks' gestation. Placentas were inspected after birth by a placental pathologist. Outcome measures were trimmed placental weight and three uncorrelated placental components; surface area, shape (oval vs round) and thickness, created through a principal components analysis. Multivariate linear regression models were used to explore the associations with maternal factors. RESULTS Compared with ethnic European women, mothers with South- and East Asian ethnicity had placentas with lower weight (-51 g (95% CI: 75, -27) and -55 g (-95, -14) respectively), primarily due to a smaller surface area. The association between South Asian ethnicity and placental surface area was still significant after adjusting for maternal characteristics and cardio-metabolic factors. Fat mass index in early pregnancy was associated with higher placental weight and thickness. Placental surface area was positively associated with mid-gestational increases in fat mass, fasting glucose and triglycerides and with the 2-h glucose value at the 28 week oral glucose tolerance test, and inversely with a mid-gestational increase in HDL-cholesterol. DISCUSSION Mid-gestational changes in fat mass, glucose, triglycerides and cholesterol were associated with, but only partly explained ethnic differences in placental surface area, while maternal fat mass in early pregnancy was associated with placental thickness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Line Sletner
- Dept. of Pediatric and Adolescents Medicine, Akershus University Hospital, Lørenskog, Norway.
| | | | - Gitta Turowski
- Dept of Anatomic Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trond M Michelsen
- Department of Obstetrics, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Christine Sommer
- Dept. of Endocrinology, Morbid Obesity and Preventive Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Kåre I Birkeland
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Dept. of Endocrinology, Morbid Obesity and Preventive Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Borghild Roald
- Dept of Anatomic Pathology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Anne Karen Jenum
- General Practice Research Unit (AFE), Department of General Practice, Institute of Health and Society, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Margolis ET, Gabard-Durnam LJ. Prenatal influences on postnatal neuroplasticity: Integrating DOHaD and sensitive/critical period frameworks to understand biological embedding in early development. INFANCY 2024. [PMID: 38449347 DOI: 10.1111/infa.12588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2023] [Revised: 01/26/2024] [Accepted: 02/13/2024] [Indexed: 03/08/2024]
Abstract
Early environments can have significant and lasting effects on brain, body, and behavior across the lifecourse. Here, we address current research efforts to understand how experiences impact neurodevelopment with a new perspective integrating two well-known conceptual frameworks - the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) and sensitive/critical period frameworks. Specifically, we consider how prenatal experiences characterized in the DOHaD model impact two key neurobiological mechanisms of sensitive/critical periods for adapting to and learning from the postnatal environment. We draw from both animal and human research to summarize the current state of knowledge on how particular prenatal substance exposures (psychoactive substances and heavy metals) and nutritional profiles (protein-energy malnutrition and iron deficiency) each differentially impact brain circuits' excitation/GABAergic inhibition balance and myelination. Finally, we highlight new research directions that emerge from this integrated framework, including testing how prenatal environments alter sensitive/critical period timing and learning and identifying potential promotional/buffering prenatal exposures to impact postnatal sensitive/critical periods. We hope this integrative framework considering prenatal influences on postnatal neuroplasticity will stimulate new research to understand how early environments have lasting consequences on our brains, behavior, and health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma T Margolis
- Department of Psychology, Northeastern University, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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Espírito-Santo DA, Cordeiro GS, Oliveira TWS, Santos LS, Silva RT, Costa CAS, Boaventura GT, Barreto-Medeiros JM. Exposure to a high-fat diet during intrauterine life and post-birth causes cardiac histomorphometric changes in rats: A systematic review. Life Sci 2022; 303:120658. [PMID: 35662554 DOI: 10.1016/j.lfs.2022.120658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/17/2022] [Accepted: 05/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Cardiac histomorphometric changes are conditions present as an adaptive response to increased cardiovascular demand, such as in obesity or the consumption of a high-fat diet. Epidemiologic studies show an increase in maternal obese individuals, with repercussions on offspring cardiovascular health. OBJECTIVE The goal of this study was to systematically review studies that evaluated cardiac histomorphometric changes in rodents exposed to a high-fat diet. DATA SOURCE PubMed, Embase, Science Direct, Web of Science and Lilacs. DATA EXTRACTION Animal species, percentage of dietary fat, period and time of exposure and main cardiac change results were extracted. DATA ANALYSIS A total of 1687 studies were found, and 20 met the inclusion criteria for this systematic review. A maternal high-fat diet was started 3 to 4 weeks before mating in most (70%) of the studies. Nutritional manipulation of offspring was initiated during pregnancy and maintained until the end of lactation in most (45%) of the studies. The fat percentage of high-fat diets ranged between 20% and 62%. The studies showed increases in cardiomyocytes, left ventricle size, and whole heart hypertrophy. Some studies showed increased thickness of the middle intima layer of the aorta and atherosclerosis. Studies that maintained a high-fat diet after the lactation period also showed an increase in cardiac hypertrophy. CONCLUSION Maternal exposure to a hyperlipidic diet in the fetal stages of cardiac development causes cardiac hypertrophy in offspring. The high variation in the dietary fat and the difference in the time and period of exposure of the offspring to the high - fat diet suggest the high degree of sensitivity of the cardiac structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Djane A Espírito-Santo
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil.
| | - Gabriele S Cordeiro
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | | | | | - Rafael T Silva
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Carlos A S Costa
- Health Sciences Center, Federal University of Recôncavo Baiano, Santo Antonio de Jesus, Bahia, Brazil
| | - Gilson T Boaventura
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
| | - Jairza M Barreto-Medeiros
- Department of Nutrition, Graduate Program of Food Nutrition and Health, Federal University of Bahia, Brazil
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Pre-eclampsia: a Scoping Review of Risk Factors and Suggestions for Future Research Direction. REGENERATIVE ENGINEERING AND TRANSLATIONAL MEDICINE 2022; 8:394-406. [PMID: 35571151 PMCID: PMC9090120 DOI: 10.1007/s40883-021-00243-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2021] [Revised: 05/13/2021] [Accepted: 12/02/2021] [Indexed: 10/25/2022]
Abstract
Abstract Most of maternal deaths are preventable, and one-quarter of maternal deaths are due to pre-eclampsia and eclampsia. Prenatal screening is essential for detecting and managing pre-eclampsia. However, pre-eclampsia screening is solely based on maternal risk factors and has low (< 5% in the USA) detection rates. This review looks at pre-eclampsia from engineering, public health, and medical points of view. First, pre-eclampsia is defined clinically, and the biological basis of established risk factors is described. The multiple theories behind pre-eclampsia etiology should serve as the scientific basis behind established risk factors for pre-eclampsia; however, African American race does not have sufficient evidence as a risk factor. We then briefly describe predictive statistical models that have been created to improve screening detection rates, which use a combination of biophysical and biochemical biomarkers, as well as aspects of patient medical history as inputs. Lastly, technologies that aid in advancing pre-eclampsia screening worldwide are explored. The review concludes with suggestions for more robust pre-eclampsia research, which includes diversifying study sites, improving biomarker analytical tools, and for researchers to consider studying patients before they become pregnant to improve pre-eclampsia detection rates. Additionally, researchers must acknowledge the systemic racism involved in using race as a risk factor and include qualitative measures in study designs to capture the effects of racism on patients. Lay Summary Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy-specific hypertensive disorder that can affect almost every organ system and complicates 2-8% of pregnancies globally. Here, we focus on the biological basis of the risk factors that have been identified for the condition. African American race currently does not have sufficient evidence as a risk factor and has been poorly studied. Current clinical methods poorly predict a patient's likelihood of developing pre-eclampsia; thus, researchers have made statistical models that are briefly described in this review. Then, low-cost technologies that aid in advancing pre-eclampsia screening are discussed. The review ends with suggestions for research direction to improve pre-eclampsia screening in all settings.Overall, we suggest that the future of pre-eclampsia screening should aim to identify those at risk before they become pregnant. We also suggest that the clinical standard of assessing patient risk solely on patient characteristics needs to be reevaluated, that study locations of pre-eclampsia research need to be expanded beyond a few high-income countries, and that low-cost technologies should be developed to increase access to prenatal screening.
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Reproducibility and validity of a food frequency questionnaire to assess cardiovascular health-related food intake among Mexican adolescents. J Nutr Sci 2022; 11:e3. [PMID: 35291283 PMCID: PMC8889230 DOI: 10.1017/jns.2022.1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/26/2021] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a lack of region-adapted tools to evaluate diet as a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in adolescents. The study aim was to evaluate the reproducibility and validity of a paper-based and region-adapted food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) designed to assess CVD-related food and nutrient intakes of adolescents from Northwest México. The study design was cross-sectional. The FFQ was developed in a two-step process: prototype designing and a pilot test, with re-tested in a 3-month period, along with two administrations of 24 h-recall (24 hR). Pearson's and intra-class correlation coefficients (PCC and ICC) were assessed. Bland–Altman plots, limits of agreement and quintile classifications were carried out. Participants (n 221) were 53·8 % male, 18·5 ± 0·4 years old. Reproducibility had a median PCC = 0·66 for processed meats, ranging from 0·40 (saturated fat) to 0·74 (fish & shellfish), P = 0·001. ICC ranged from 0·53 (saturated fat) to 0·80 (sodium; and nuts, seeds and legumes), P = 0·001. Validity comparing FFQ1 v. 24 hR mean, PCCs ranged from 0·12 (P = 0·06) to 0·95 (P = 0·001), and ICC from 0·20 (P = 0·048) to 0·88 (P = 0·001); comparing FFQ2 v. 24 hR mean, PCCs ranged from 0·07 (P = 0·25) to 0·46 (P = 0·001), and ICC from 0·15 (P = 0·106) to 0·58 (P = 0·001). The FFQ overestimated the intake of all food groups and nutrients (P < 0·05), while Cohen's κ showed coefficients lower than 0·20. The proposed FFQ represents a moderately validated tool to estimate CVD-related food and nutrient intakes as a risk factor, which can be used in combination with multiple administrations of 24 hRs, as a critical mean in future interventions intended to reduce cardiometabolic risk in adolescents.
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Ferreira BD, Barros T, Moleiro ML, Guedes-Martins L. Preeclampsia and Fetal Congenital Heart Defects. Curr Cardiol Rev 2022; 18:80-91. [PMID: 35430980 PMCID: PMC9896419 DOI: 10.2174/1573403x18666220415150943] [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: 07/11/2021] [Revised: 12/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Endothelial dysfunction, impaired implantation and placental insufficiency have been identified as mechanisms behind the development of pre-eclampsia, resulting in angiogenic factors' alteration. Angiogenic imbalance is also associated with congenital heart defects, and this common physiologic pathway may explain the association between them and pre-eclampsia. This review aims to understand the physiology shared by these two entities and whether women with pre-eclampsia have an increased risk of fetal congenital heart defects (or the opposite). The present research has highlighted multiple vasculogenic pathways associated with heart defects and preeclampsia, but also epigenetic and environmental factors, contributing both. It is also known that fetuses with a prenatal diagnosis of congenital heart disease have an increased risk of several comorbidities, including intrauterine growth restriction. Moreover, the impact of pre-eclampsia goes beyond pregnancy as it increases the risk for following pregnancies and for diseases later in life in both offspring and mothers. Given the morbidity and mortality associated with these conditions, it is of foremost importance to understand how they are related and its causative mechanisms. This knowledge may allow earlier diagnosis, an adequate surveillance or even the implementation of preventive strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Tânia Barros
- Address correspondence to this author at the Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, University of Porto, P.O. Box: 4050-313, Porto, Portugal; Tel/Fax: +351917518938; E-mail:
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Childhood vascular phenotypes have differing associations with prenatal and postnatal growth. J Hypertens 2021; 39:1884-1892. [PMID: 33853103 PMCID: PMC8373454 DOI: 10.1097/hjh.0000000000002870] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE In children aged 8--9 years, we examined the associations of linear and abdominal circumference growth during critical stages of prenatal and postnatal development with six vascular measurements commonly used as early markers of atherosclerosis and later cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. METHODS In 724 children from the UK Southampton Women's Survey mother--offspring cohort, offspring length/height and abdominal circumference measurements were collected at 10 ages between 11 weeks' gestation and age 8--9 years. Using residual growth modelling and linear regression, we examined the independent associations between growth and detailed vascular measures made at 8--9 years. RESULTS Postnatal linear and abdominal circumference growth were associated with higher childhood SBP and carotid--femoral pulse wave velocity, whereas prenatal growth was not. For example, 1SD faster abdominal circumference gain between ages 3 and 6 years was associated with 2.27 [95% confidence interval (CI): 1.56--2.98] mmHg higher SBP. In contrast, faster abdominal circumference gain before 19 weeks' gestation was associated with greater carotid intima--media thickness [0.009 mm (0.004--0.015) per 1SD larger 19-week abdominal circumference), whereas later growth was not. We found no strong associations between prenatal or postnatal growth and DBP or measures of endothelial function. CONCLUSION Higher postnatal linear growth and adiposity gain are related to higher SBP and carotid--femoral pulse wave velocity in childhood. In contrast, faster growth in early gestation is associated with greater childhood carotid intima--media thickness, perhaps resulting from subtle changes in vascular structure that reflect physiological adaptations rather than subclinical atherosclerosis.
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10
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Murray R, Kitaba N, Antoun E, Titcombe P, Barton S, Cooper C, Inskip HM, Burdge GC, Mahon PA, Deanfield J, Halcox JP, Ellins EA, Bryant J, Peebles C, Lillycrop K, Godfrey KM, Hanson MA. Influence of Maternal Lifestyle and Diet on Perinatal DNA Methylation Signatures Associated With Childhood Arterial Stiffness at 8 to 9 Years. Hypertension 2021; 78:787-800. [PMID: 34275334 PMCID: PMC8357051 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.121.17396] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Supplemental Digital Content is available in the text. Increases in aortic pulse wave velocity, a measure of arterial stiffness, can lead to elevated systolic blood pressure and increased cardiac afterload in adulthood. These changes are detectable in childhood and potentially originate in utero, where an adverse early life environment can alter DNA methylation patterns detectable at birth. Here, analysis of epigenome-wide methylation patterns using umbilical cord blood DNA from 470 participants in the Southampton’s Women’s Survey identified differential methylation patterns associated with systolic blood pressure, pulse pressure, arterial distensibility, and descending aorta pulse wave velocity measured by magnetic resonance imaging at 8 to 9 years. Perinatal methylation levels at 16 CpG loci were associated with descending aorta pulse wave velocity, with identified CpG sites enriched in pathways involved in DNA repair (P=9.03×10−11). The most significant association was with cg20793626 methylation (within protein phosphatase, Mg2+/Mn2+ dependent 1D; β=−0.05 m/s/1% methylation change, [95% CI, −0.09 to −0.02]). Genetic variation was also examined but had a minor influence on these observations. Eight pulse wave velocity-linked dmCpGs were associated with prenatal modifiable risk factors, with cg08509237 methylation (within palmitoyl-protein thioesterase-2) associated with maternal oily fish consumption in early and late pregnancy. Lower oily fish consumption in early pregnancy modified the relationship between methylation and pulse wave velocity, with lower consumption strengthening the association between cg08509237 methylation and increased pulse wave velocity. In conclusion, measurement of perinatal DNA methylation signatures has utility in identifying infants who might benefit from preventive interventions to reduce risk of later cardiovascular disease, and modifiable maternal factors can reduce this risk in the child.
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Affiliation(s)
- Robert Murray
- From the School of Human Development and Health, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Faculty of Medicine (R.M., N.K., E.A., G.C.B., K.M.G., M.A.H.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Negusse Kitaba
- From the School of Human Development and Health, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Faculty of Medicine (R.M., N.K., E.A., G.C.B., K.M.G., M.A.H.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Elie Antoun
- From the School of Human Development and Health, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Faculty of Medicine (R.M., N.K., E.A., G.C.B., K.M.G., M.A.H.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom.,Centre for Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences (E.A., K.L.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Titcombe
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit (P.T., S.B., C.C., H.M.I., P.A.M., K.M.G.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Sheila Barton
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit (P.T., S.B., C.C., H.M.I., P.A.M., K.M.G.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Cyrus Cooper
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit (P.T., S.B., C.C., H.M.I., P.A.M., K.M.G.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Hazel M Inskip
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit (P.T., S.B., C.C., H.M.I., P.A.M., K.M.G.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom (H.M.I., K.L., K.M.G., M.A.H.)
| | - Graham C Burdge
- From the School of Human Development and Health, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Faculty of Medicine (R.M., N.K., E.A., G.C.B., K.M.G., M.A.H.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - Pamela A Mahon
- MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit (P.T., S.B., C.C., H.M.I., P.A.M., K.M.G.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom
| | - John Deanfield
- Institute of Cardiovascular Sciences, University College London, United Kingdom (J.D.)
| | - Julian P Halcox
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, United Kingdom (J.P.H., E.A.E.)
| | - Elizabeth A Ellins
- Swansea University Medical School, Swansea University, United Kingdom (J.P.H., E.A.E.)
| | - Jennifer Bryant
- Department of Cardiac Magnetic Resonance Imaging, National Heart Centre Singapore (J.B.)
| | - Charles Peebles
- Wessex Cardiothoracic Centre, Southampton University Hospitals NHS Trust, United Kingdom (C.P.)
| | - Karen Lillycrop
- Centre for Biological Sciences, Faculty of Natural and Environmental Sciences (E.A., K.L.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom (H.M.I., K.L., K.M.G., M.A.H.)
| | - Keith M Godfrey
- From the School of Human Development and Health, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Faculty of Medicine (R.M., N.K., E.A., G.C.B., K.M.G., M.A.H.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom.,MRC Lifecourse Epidemiology Unit (P.T., S.B., C.C., H.M.I., P.A.M., K.M.G.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom (H.M.I., K.L., K.M.G., M.A.H.)
| | - Mark A Hanson
- From the School of Human Development and Health, Institute of Developmental Sciences Building, Faculty of Medicine (R.M., N.K., E.A., G.C.B., K.M.G., M.A.H.), University of Southampton, United Kingdom.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University of Southampton and University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, United Kingdom (H.M.I., K.L., K.M.G., M.A.H.)
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11
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Malamitsi‐Puchner A, Briana DD, Giudice L, Di Renzo GC. Could children born to mothers with COVID-19 be more prone to non-communicable diseases? Acta Paediatr 2021; 110:1367-1368. [PMID: 33438264 PMCID: PMC8013839 DOI: 10.1111/apa.15757] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2020] [Revised: 01/10/2021] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Ariadne Malamitsi‐Puchner
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 3rd Department of Pediatrics National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Despina D. Briana
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, 3rd Department of Pediatrics National and Kapodistrian University of Athens Athens Greece
| | - Linda Giudice
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences University of California San Francisco CA USA
| | - Gian Carlo Di Renzo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Centre for Perinatal and Reproductive Medicine University of Perugia Perugia Italy
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology IM Sechenov First State University Moscow Russia
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12
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Pompano LM, Boy E. Effects of Dose and Duration of Zinc Interventions on Risk Factors for Type 2 Diabetes and Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Adv Nutr 2021; 12:141-160. [PMID: 32722790 PMCID: PMC7850144 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmaa087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2020] [Revised: 06/15/2020] [Accepted: 06/25/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
No meta-analysis has examined the effect of dose and duration of zinc interventions on their impact on risk factors for type 2 diabetes (T2D) or cardiovascular disease (CVD). This study aimed first to compare the effects of zinc interventions dichotomized as low versus high dose (<25 mg/d and ≥25 mg/d, respectively) and short versus long duration (<12 wk and ≥12 wk, respectively) on risk factors for T2D and CVD. Second, it discusses the results from the low-dose and long-duration meta-analyses as a foundation for understanding what impact a zinc-biofortification intervention could have on these risk factors. The PubMed and Cochrane Review databases were searched through January 2020 for full-text, human studies providing zinc supplements (alone) at doses ≤75 mg/d and a placebo. Data on study and sample characteristics and several T2D and CVD risk factors were extracted. There were 1042 and 974 participants receiving zinc and placebo, respectively, from 27 studies. Low-dose zinc supplementation (<25 mg/d) significantly benefited fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and LDL cholesterol. High-dose zinc supplementation (≥25 mg/d) benefited glycated hemoglobin and insulin resistance. Short-duration interventions (<12 wk) benefited fasting blood glucose, insulin resistance, and triglycerides, while long-duration studies (≥12 wk) benefited fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, and total and LDL cholesterol. Effect sizes for low-dose and long-duration interventions were of equal or greater magnitude to those from high-dose or short-duration interventions. Low-dose and long-duration zinc supplementation each improved more risk factors for T2D and CVD than high-dose and short-duration interventions, respectively. It is currently unknown whether low doses of zinc delivered over long durations via a biofortified crop would similarly impact these risk factors. However, this review suggests that low-dose, long-duration zinc intake from supplements, and potentially biofortification, can benefit risk factors for T2D and CVD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura M Pompano
- HarvestPlus, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Erick Boy
- HarvestPlus, International Food Policy Research Institute, Washington, DC, USA
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13
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Kopylova OV, Ershova AI, Meshkov AN, Drapkina OM. Lifelong prevention of cardiovascular disease. Part I: preconceptional, prenatal and infant periods of life. КАРДИОВАСКУЛЯРНАЯ ТЕРАПИЯ И ПРОФИЛАКТИКА 2020. [DOI: 10.15829/1728-8800-2020-2647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Current prophylactic actions prevent or significantly delay the majority of cardiovascular diseases (CVD). Various factors are interconnected and affect a person throughout his life, determining the risk of CVD. This indicates the need for preventive measures at all stages of life and even before birth. The beneficial effects of CVD prevention are realized through various genetic, epigenetic and metabolic mechanisms. Due to the fact that many risk factors for CVD have a cumulative effect, the introduction of preventive measures from the earliest life stages will be most effective. The purpose of the article is to consider various aspects of CVD prevention in the preconceptional, prenatal and infant periods.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. V. Kopylova
- National Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
| | - A. I. Ershova
- National Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
| | - A. N. Meshkov
- National Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
| | - O. M. Drapkina
- National Research Center for Therapy and Preventive Medicine
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14
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Killeen SL, Callaghan SL, Jacob CM, Hanson MA, McAuliffe FM. Examining the use of the FIGO Nutrition Checklist in routine antenatal practice: multistakeholder feedback to implementation. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2020; 151 Suppl 1:51-56. [PMID: 32894589 PMCID: PMC7589336 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13323] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Objective To gain insights from pregnant women and obstetricians on the utility of the FIGO Nutrition Checklist in antenatal practice. Methods Women were recruited from the antenatal department of a large tertiary‐level university maternity hospital in Dublin, Ireland, between October and December 2019. Participants completed the FIGO Nutrition Checklist before their routine antenatal appointment. Obstetricians and women were encouraged to discuss the FIGO Nutrition Checklist during the clinical visit. Completed FIGO Nutrition Checklists were collected after appointments. Acceptability was assessed through questionnaires. Results The majority (80.0%) of women answered “No” to at least one diet quality question, indicating a potential nutritional risk. While none of the participating obstetricians routinely discussed nutrition with women, all agreed that using the Checklist encouraged them to address nutrition with pregnant women. Nearly every woman (99.0%) found the Checklist quick to complete; however, all participating obstetricians felt there was not enough time to discuss it in routine practice. Despite this, most obstetricians and pregnant women recommended the FIGO Nutrition Checklist for use. Conclusion The FIGO Nutrition Checklist is acceptable for use in routine antenatal practice in tertiary care settings. It helped identify potentially at‐risk women during early pregnancy and facilitated conversations related to optimum diet. The FIGO Nutrition Checklist is acceptable to pregnant women and may capture high‐risk weight or dietary practices in pregnancy that would otherwise go untreated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah Louise Killeen
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Shauna L Callaghan
- School of Nursing, Midwifery and Health Systems, University College Dublin, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Chandni Maria Jacob
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Mark A Hanson
- Institute of Developmental Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Fionnuala M McAuliffe
- UCD Perinatal Research Centre, School of Medicine, University College Dublin, National Maternity Hospital, Dublin, Ireland
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15
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Jacob CM, Killeen SL, McAuliffe FM, Stephenson J, Hod M, Diaz Yamal I, Malhotra J, Mocanu E, McIntyre HD, Kihara AB, Ma RC, Divakar H, Kapur A, Ferriani R, Ng E, Henry L, Van Der Spuy Z, Rosenwaks Z, Hanson MA. Prevention of noncommunicable diseases by interventions in the preconception period: A FIGO position paper for action by healthcare practitioners. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2020; 151 Suppl 1:6-15. [PMID: 32894587 PMCID: PMC7590173 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.13331] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
With the increase in obesity prevalence among women of reproductive age globally, the risks of type 2 diabetes, gestational diabetes, pre-eclampsia, and other conditions are rising, with detrimental effects on maternal and newborn health. The period before pregnancy is increasingly recognized as crucial for addressing weight management and reducing malnutrition (both under- and overnutrition) in both parents to reduce the risk of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) in the mother as well as the passage of risk to her offspring. Healthcare practitioners, including obstetricians, gynecologists, midwives, and general practitioners, have an important role to play in supporting women in planning a pregnancy and achieving healthy nutrition and weight before pregnancy. In this position paper, the FIGO Pregnancy Obesity and Nutrition Initiative provides an overview of the evidence for preconception clinical guidelines to reduce the risk of NCDs in mothers and their offspring. It encourages healthcare practitioners to initiate a dialogue on women's health, nutrition, and weight management before conception. While acknowledging the fundamental importance of the wider social and environmental determinants of health, this paper focuses on a simple set of recommendations for clinical practice that can be used even in short consultations. The recommendations can be contextualized based on local cultural and dietary practices as part of a system-wide public health approach to influence the wider determinants as well as individual factors influencing preconception health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chandni Maria Jacob
- Institute of Developmental SciencesFaculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research CentreUniversity Hospital SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
| | - Sarah Louise Killeen
- UCD Perinatal Research CentreSchool of MedicineUniversity College DublinNational Maternity HospitalDublinIreland
| | - Fionnuala M. McAuliffe
- UCD Perinatal Research CentreSchool of MedicineUniversity College DublinNational Maternity HospitalDublinIreland
| | - Judith Stephenson
- Elizabeth Garrett Anderson Institute for Women’s HealthUniversity College LondonLondonUK
| | - Moshe Hod
- Mor Comprehensive Women’s Health Care CenterTel AvivIsrael
- FIGO Pregnancy and Non‐Communicable Diseases CommitteeInternational Federation of Gynecology and ObstetricsLondonUK
| | - Ivonne Diaz Yamal
- Faculty of MedicineUniversity Militar Nueva GranadaBogotaColombia
- Fertility Center Procreation Medicamente AsistidaBogotaColombia
- FIGO Committee for Reproductive Medicine, Endocrinology, and InfertilityInternational Federation of Gynecology and ObstetricsLondonUK
| | - Jaideep Malhotra
- Malhotra Nursing and Maternity HomeAgraIndia
- Rainbow HospitalAgraIndia
| | - Edgar Mocanu
- RCSI Department of Reproductive MedicineRotunda HospitalDublinIreland
| | - H. David McIntyre
- Mater ResearchThe University of QueenslandSouth BrisbaneQldAustralia
| | - Anne B. Kihara
- African Federation of Obstetricians and GynaecologistsKhartoumSudan
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologySchool of MedicineUniversity of NairobiNairobiKenya
| | - Ronald C. Ma
- Department of Medicine and TherapeuticsThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
- Hong Kong Institute of Diabetes and ObesityThe Chinese University of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
| | | | - Anil Kapur
- World Diabetes FoundationBagsværdDenmark
| | - Rui Ferriani
- Ribeirão Preto Medical SchoolHuman Reproduction SectorDepartment of Gynecology and ObstetricsUniversity of São PauloSão PauloBrazil
| | - Ernest Ng
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyLi Ka Shing Faculty of MedicineUniversity of Hong KongHong Kong SARChina
| | - Laurie Henry
- Department of Gynecology and ObstetricsCentre de Procréation Médicalement Assistée (CPMA)University of LiègeCHR de la CitadelleLiègeBelgium
| | - Zephne Van Der Spuy
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Cape TownGroote Schuur HospitalCape TownSouth Africa
| | - Zev Rosenwaks
- The Ronald O. Perelman and Claudia Cohen Center for Reproductive MedicineWeill Cornell MedicineNew YorkNYUSA
| | - Mark A. Hanson
- Institute of Developmental SciencesFaculty of MedicineUniversity of SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
- NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research CentreUniversity Hospital SouthamptonSouthamptonUK
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16
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Nemoto T, Nakakura T, Kakinuma Y. Elevated blood pressure in high-fat diet-exposed low birthweight rat offspring is most likely caused by elevated glucocorticoid levels due to abnormal pituitary negative feedback. PLoS One 2020; 15:e0238223. [PMID: 32853260 PMCID: PMC7451543 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0238223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Accepted: 08/12/2020] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Being delivered as a low birthweight (LBW) infant is a risk factor for elevated blood pressure and future problems with cardiovascular and cerebellar diseases. Although premature babies are reported to have low numbers of nephrons, some unclear questions remain about the mechanisms underlying elevated blood pressure in full-term LBW infants. We previously reported that glucocorticoids increased miR-449a expression, and increased miR-449a expression suppressed Crhr1 expression and caused negative glucocorticoid feedback. Therefore, we conducted this study to clarify the involvement of pituitary miR-449a in the increase in blood pressure caused by higher glucocorticoids in LBW rats. We generated a fetal low-carbohydrate and calorie-restricted model rat (60% of standard chow), and some individuals showed postnatal growth failure caused by growth hormone receptor expression. Using this model, we examined how a high-fat diet (lard-based 45kcal% fat)-induced mismatch between prenatal and postnatal environments could elevate blood pressure after growth. Although LBW rats fed standard chow had slightly higher blood pressure than control rats, their blood pressure was significantly higher than controls when exposed to a high-fat diet. Observation of glomeruli subjected to periodic acid methenamine silver (PAM) staining showed no difference in number or size. Aortic and cardiac angiotensin II receptor expression was altered with compensatory responses. Blood aldosterone levels were not different between control and LBW rats, but blood corticosterone levels were significantly higher in the latter with high-fat diet exposure. Administration of metyrapone, a steroid synthesis inhibitor, reduced blood pressure to levels comparable to controls. We showed that high-fat diet exposure causes impairment of the pituitary glucocorticoid negative feedback via miR-449a. These results clarify that LBW rats have increased blood pressure due to high glucocorticoid levels when they are exposed to a high-fat diet. These findings suggest a new therapeutic target for hypertension of LBW individuals.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takahiro Nemoto
- Department of Bioregulatory Science (Physiology), Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
- * E-mail:
| | - Takashi Nakakura
- Department of Anatomy, Graduate School of Medicine, Teikyo University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Yoshihiko Kakinuma
- Department of Bioregulatory Science (Physiology), Nippon Medical School, Tokyo, Japan
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17
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Rivera E, García-Herrera C, González-Candia A, Celentano DJ, Herrera EA. Effects of melatonin on the passive mechanical response of arteries in chronic hypoxic newborn lambs. J Mech Behav Biomed Mater 2020; 112:104013. [PMID: 32846285 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmbbm.2020.104013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2020] [Revised: 04/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Chronic hypoxia is a condition that increases the cardiovascular complications of newborns gestated and born at high altitude (HA), over 2500 m above sea level (masl). A particularly complex pathology is pulmonary arterial hypertension of the neonate (PHN), which is increased at HA due to hypobaric hypoxia. Basic and clinical research have recognized that new treatments are needed, because current ones are, in general, palliative and with low effectiveness. Therefore, recently we have proposed melatonin as a potential adjuvant treatment to improve cardiopulmonary function. However, melatonin effects on the mechanical response of the arteries and their microstructure are not known. This study assesses the effects of a neonatal treatment with daily low doses of melatonin on the passive biomechanical behavior of the aorta artery and main pulmonary artery of PHN lambs born in chronic hypobaric hypoxia (at 3600 masl). With this purpose, ex-vivo measurements were made on axial stretch, tensile and opening ring tests together with a histological analysis to explore the morphometry and microstructure of the arteries. Our results show that the passive mechanical properties of the aorta artery and main pulmonary artery of lambs do not seem to be affected by a treatment based on low melatonin doses. However, we found evidence that melatonin has microstructural effects, particularly, diminishing cell proliferation, which is an indicator of antiremodeling capacity. Therefore, the use of melatonin as an adjuvant against pathologies like PHN would present antiproliferative effect at the microstructural level, keeping the macroscopic properties of the aorta artery and main pulmonary artery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eugenio Rivera
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Av. Bernardo O'Higgins, 3363, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Claudio García-Herrera
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Universidad de Santiago de Chile, Av. Bernardo O'Higgins, 3363, Santiago de Chile, Chile.
| | - Alejandro González-Candia
- International Center for Andean Studies (INCAS), Universidad de Chile, Baquedano S/n, Putre, Chile; Institute of Health Sciences, University of O'Higgins, Libertador Bernardo O'Higgins 611, Rancagua, Chile
| | - Diego J Celentano
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica y Metalúrgica, Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Av. Vicuña Mackenna 4860, Santiago de Chile, Chile
| | - Emilio A Herrera
- Laboratorio de Función y Reactividad Vascular, Programa de Fisiopatología, ICBM, Universidad de Chile, Av. Salvador 486, Santiago de Chile, Chile; International Center for Andean Studies (INCAS), Universidad de Chile, Baquedano S/n, Putre, Chile
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18
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Mechanisms linking exposure to preeclampsia in utero and the risk for cardiovascular disease. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2020; 11:235-242. [PMID: 32070456 DOI: 10.1017/s2040174420000094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Preeclampsia (PE) is now recognised as a cardiovascular risk factor for women. Emerging evidence suggests that children exposed to PE in utero may also be at increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in later life. Individuals exposed to PE in utero have higher systolic and diastolic blood pressure and higher body mass index (BMI) compared to those not exposed to PE in utero. The aim of this review is to discuss the potential mechanisms driving the relationship between PE and offspring CVD. Exposure to an adverse intrauterine environment as a consequence of the pathophysiological changes that occur during a pregnancy complicated by PE is proposed as one mechanism that programs the fetus for future CVD risk. Consistent with this hypothesis, animal models of PE where progeny have been studied demonstrate causality for programming of offspring cardiovascular health by the preeclamptic environment. Shared alleles between mother and offspring, and shared lifestyle factors between mother and offspring provide alternate pathways explaining associations between PE and offspring CVD risk. In addition, adverse lifestyle habits can also act as second hits for those programmed for increased CVD risk. PE and CVD are both multifactorial diseases and, hence, identifying the relative contribution of PE to offspring risk for CVD is a very complex task. However, considering the emerging strong association between PE and CVD, those exposed to PE in utero may benefit from targeted primary CVD preventive strategies.
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