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Brown ER, Giussani DA. Cause of fetal growth restriction during high-altitude pregnancy. iScience 2024; 27:109702. [PMID: 38694168 PMCID: PMC11061758 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 04/05/2024] [Indexed: 05/04/2024] Open
Abstract
High-altitude pregnancy increases the incidence of fetal growth restriction and reduces birth weight. This poses a significant clinical challenge as both are linked to adverse health outcomes, including raised infant mortality and the development of the metabolic syndrome in later life. While this reduction in birth weight is mostly understood to be driven by the hypobaric hypoxia of high altitude, the causative mechanism is unclear. Moreover, it is now recognized that highland ancestry confers protection against this reduction in birth weight. Here, we analyze the evidence that pregnancy at high altitude reduces birth weight and that highland ancestry confers protection, discussing mechanisms contributing to both effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily R. Brown
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
| | - Dino A. Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development & Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, UK
- Cambridge Strategic Research Initiative in Reproduction
- Cambridge Cardiovascular Centre for Research Excellence
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Henriksen T, Sajjad MU, Haugen G, Michelsen TM. Placental energy metabolism: Evidence for a placental-maternal lactate-ketone trade in the human. Placenta 2024; 148:31-37. [PMID: 38350223 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2024.01.020] [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: 09/10/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/31/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Glucose from placenta is the predominant energy source for the fetus. Individual placentas exhibit a range of glucose handling from apparent net production to high consumption, presumably reflecting an ability of placenta to secure both own and fetal energy needs. A dependency of placenta on glucose as the main energy source could impede fetal supply. Placenta seems to release lactate to maternal side implying loss of energy. Whether placenta takes up ketones is unclear. Our main hypothesis was that the human placenta can release lactate to the maternal side but take up maternal ketones. METHODS An in vivo study of term uncomplicated pregnancies including 56 women delivered by cesarean section. We measured uterine and umbilical blood flow by Doppler ultrasonography, combined with blood sampling from maternal radial artery, uterine vein, umbilical artery and vein. Lactate and ketones were determined by quantitative nuclear magnetic resonance. RESULTS Placenta released lactate to the maternal side (median -36.65 μmol/min. Q1, Q3: 78.53, 13.29), p < 0.001), but not to the fetal side. A net uptake of maternal ketones was found (median (Q1, Q3): 59.12 (30.64, 131.46) μmol acetate equivalents/min, p < 0.001) which largely was metabolized by the uteroplacenta. The uptake of ketones was comparable in energy to the loss of lactate. DISCUSSION Placenta may release lactate to the maternal side. The energy lost by lactate may be compensated by uptake of maternal ketones. This lactate-ketone trade could benefit both placenta and the fetus by providing lactate for maternal gluconeogenesis and ketones for uteroplacental oxidative energy production.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tore Henriksen
- Department of Obstetrics, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Muhammad U Sajjad
- Department of Obstetrics, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Guttorm Haugen
- Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; Department of Fetal Medicine, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway
| | - Trond M Michelsen
- Department of Obstetrics, Oslo University Hospital, Rikshospitalet, Oslo, Norway; Institute of Clinical Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway.
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O'Brien KA, Gu W, Houck JA, Holzner LMW, Yung HW, Armstrong JL, Sowton AP, Baxter R, Darwin PM, Toledo-Jaldin L, Lazo-Vega L, Moreno-Aramayo AE, Miranda-Garrido V, Shortt JA, Matarazzo CJ, Yasini H, Burton GJ, Moore LG, Simonson TS, Murray AJ, Julian CG. Genomic Selection Signals in Andean Highlanders Reveal Adaptive Placental Metabolic Phenotypes That Are Disrupted in Preeclampsia. Hypertension 2024; 81:319-329. [PMID: 38018457 PMCID: PMC10841680 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.123.21748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The chronic hypoxia of high-altitude residence poses challenges for tissue oxygen supply and metabolism. Exposure to high altitude during pregnancy increases the incidence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy and fetal growth restriction and alters placental metabolism. High-altitude ancestry protects against altitude-associated fetal growth restriction, indicating hypoxia tolerance that is genetic in nature. Yet, not all babies are protected and placental pathologies associated with fetal growth restriction occur in some Andean highlanders. METHODS We examined placental metabolic function in 79 Andeans (18-45 years; 39 preeclamptic and 40 normotensive) living in La Paz, Bolivia (3600-4100 m) delivered by unlabored Cesarean section. Using a selection-nominated approach, we examined links between putatively adaptive genetic variation and phenotypes related to oxygen delivery or placental metabolism. RESULTS Mitochondrial oxidative capacity was associated with fetal oxygen delivery in normotensive but not preeclamptic placenta and was also suppressed in term preeclamptic pregnancy. Maternal haplotypes in or within 200 kb of selection-nominated genes were associated with lower placental mitochondrial respiratory capacity (PTPRD [protein tyrosine phosphatase receptor-δ]), lower maternal plasma erythropoietin (CPT2 [carnitine palmitoyl transferase 2], proopiomelanocortin, and DNMT3 [DNA methyltransferase 3]), and lower VEGF (vascular endothelial growth factor) in umbilical venous plasma (TBX5 [T-box transcription factor 5]). A fetal haplotype within 200 kb of CPT2 was associated with increased placental mitochondrial complex II capacity, placental nitrotyrosine, and GLUT4 (glucose transporter type 4) protein expression. CONCLUSIONS Our findings reveal novel associations between putatively adaptive gene regions and phenotypes linked to oxygen delivery and placental metabolic function in highland Andeans, suggesting that such effects may be of genetic origin. Our findings also demonstrate maladaptive metabolic mechanisms in the context of preeclampsia, including dysregulation of placental oxygen consumption.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie A O'Brien
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine (K.A.O., W.G., T.S.S.), University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
- Department of Biomedical Informatics (K.A.O., J.A.H., J.A.S., C.J.M., H.Y., C.G.J.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Wanjun Gu
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine (K.A.O., W.G., T.S.S.), University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
- Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Longevity Sciences (W.G.), University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Julie A Houck
- Department of Biomedical Informatics (K.A.O., J.A.H., J.A.S., C.J.M., H.Y., C.G.J.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences (J.A.H., L.G.M.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Lorenz M W Holzner
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
| | - Hong Wa Yung
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
| | - Jenna L Armstrong
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
| | - Alice P Sowton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
| | - Ruby Baxter
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
| | - Paula M Darwin
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
| | - Lilian Toledo-Jaldin
- Department of Obstetrics, Hospital Materno-Infantil, La Paz, Bolivia (L.T.-J., L.L.-V., A.E.M.-M., V.M.-G.)
| | - Litzi Lazo-Vega
- Department of Obstetrics, Hospital Materno-Infantil, La Paz, Bolivia (L.T.-J., L.L.-V., A.E.M.-M., V.M.-G.)
| | - Any Elena Moreno-Aramayo
- Department of Obstetrics, Hospital Materno-Infantil, La Paz, Bolivia (L.T.-J., L.L.-V., A.E.M.-M., V.M.-G.)
| | - Valquiria Miranda-Garrido
- Department of Obstetrics, Hospital Materno-Infantil, La Paz, Bolivia (L.T.-J., L.L.-V., A.E.M.-M., V.M.-G.)
| | - Jonathan A Shortt
- Department of Biomedical Informatics (K.A.O., J.A.H., J.A.S., C.J.M., H.Y., C.G.J.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Christopher J Matarazzo
- Department of Biomedical Informatics (K.A.O., J.A.H., J.A.S., C.J.M., H.Y., C.G.J.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Hussna Yasini
- Department of Biomedical Informatics (K.A.O., J.A.H., J.A.S., C.J.M., H.Y., C.G.J.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Graham J Burton
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
| | - Lorna G Moore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Division of Reproductive Sciences (J.A.H., L.G.M.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
| | - Tatum S Simonson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine (K.A.O., W.G., T.S.S.), University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA
| | - Andrew J Murray
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.A.O., L.M.W.H., H.W.Y., J.L.A., A.P.S., R.B., P.M.D., G.J.B., A.J.M.)
| | - Colleen G Julian
- Department of Biomedical Informatics (K.A.O., J.A.H., J.A.S., C.J.M., H.Y., C.G.J.), University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, CO
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Ma Y, Zhang Y, He Q, Xu T, Huang W, Deng X, Qian Y. Association between VDR genetic polymorphisms and risk of gestational diabetes mellitus in the Chinese population. Am J Reprod Immunol 2023; 90:e13778. [PMID: 38009062 DOI: 10.1111/aji.13778] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIMS Abnormal metabolism of vitamin D was the primary mechanism in many pregnancy diseases. Our study was the first to examine the hypothesis that VDR gene polymorphisms contribute to the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) in the Chinese population at high altitudes. MATERIALS AND METHODS One hundred and eighteen women with GDM and 104 women with normal glucose tolerance (NGT) were included in this study using a case-control design. Four single nucleotide polymorphisms (g.47879112G > A, g.47846052C > T, g.47844974A > G, and g.47845054C > A) of mother and fetus were genotyped. RESULTS Maternal and fetal frequency of the A allele of g.47879112G > A was significantly increased in women with GDM than in those with NGT (p < .05). A correlation between the AA homozygous genotype of g.47879112G > A and GDM was noted. Compared with non-carriers, A allele carriers showed higher fasting plasma insulin and two-hour post-challenge plasma glucose (2h-PPG), and lower levels of vitamin D. Furthermore, both maternal and fetal 4-marker haplotype ACCG were found to be significantly associated with GDM (p < .05). CONCLUSIONS Association and haplotype analysis indicated that the A allele of g.47879112G > A could be a risk factor for GDM development in the Chinese population at high altitudes. Additionally, the VDR gene polymorphism of the fetus and mother may have a synergistic effect. The VDR polymorphism is associated with an increased risk of GDM and may be useful for predicting the development of the disease.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yuhang Zhang
- The First People's Hospital of Puer City, Puer, China
| | - Qiuyue He
- Kunming Medical Univesity, Kunming, China
| | - Tong Xu
- Kunming Medical Univesity, Kunming, China
| | - Wei Huang
- Kunming Medical Univesity, Kunming, China
| | - Xingli Deng
- Department of Neurosurgery, The First Affiliated Hospital of Kunming Medical University, Kunming, China
| | - Yuan Qian
- Kunming Medical Univesity, Kunming, China
- The First People's Hospital of Puer City, Puer, China
- Clinical Medical Research Center for Obstetrics and Gynecology (Yunnan Joint Key Laboratory), Kunming city of Maternal and Child Health Hospital, Kunming city of Women and Children, Kunming, China
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Kyllo HM, Wang D, Lorca RA, Julian CG, Moore LG, Wilkening RB, Rozance PJ, Brown LD, Wesolowski SR. Adaptive responses in uteroplacental metabolism and fetoplacental nutrient shuttling and sensing during placental insufficiency. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2023; 324:E556-E568. [PMID: 37126847 PMCID: PMC10259853 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00046.2023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2023] [Revised: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Glucose, lactate, and amino acids are major fetal nutrients. During placental insufficiency-induced intrauterine growth restriction (PI-IUGR), uteroplacental weight-specific oxygen consumption rates are maintained, yet fetal glucose and amino acid supply is decreased and fetal lactate concentrations are increased. We hypothesized that uteroplacental metabolism adapts to PI-IUGR by altering nutrient allocation to maintain oxidative metabolism. Here, we measured nutrient flux rates, with a focus on nutrients shuttled between the placenta and fetus (lactate-pyruvate, glutamine-glutamate, and glycine-serine) in a sheep model of PI-IUGR. PI-IUGR fetuses weighed 40% less and had decreased oxygen, glucose, and amino acid concentrations and increased lactate and pyruvate versus control (CON) fetuses. Uteroplacental weight-specific rates of oxygen, glucose, lactate, and pyruvate uptake were similar. In PI-IUGR, fetal glucose uptake was decreased and pyruvate output was increased. In PI-IUGR placental tissue, pyruvate dehydrogenase (PDH) phosphorylation was decreased and PDH activity was increased. Uteroplacental glutamine output to the fetus and expression of genes regulating glutamine-glutamate metabolism were lower in PI-IUGR. Fetal glycine uptake was lower in PI-IUGR, with no differences in uteroplacental glycine or serine flux. These results suggest increased placental utilization of pyruvate from the fetus, without higher maternal glucose utilization, and lower fetoplacental amino acid shuttling during PI-IUGR. Mechanistically, AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation was higher and associated with thiobarbituric acid-reactive substances (TBARS) content, a marker of oxidative stress, and PDH activity in the PI-IUGR placenta, supporting a potential link between oxidative stress, AMPK, and pyruvate utilization. These differences in fetoplacental nutrient sensing and shuttling may represent adaptive strategies enabling the placenta to maintain oxidative metabolism.NEW & NOTEWORTHY These results suggest increased placental utilization of pyruvate from the fetus, without higher maternal glucose uptake, and lower amino acid shuttling in the placental insufficiency-induced intrauterine growth restriction (PI-IUGR) placenta. AMPK activation was associated with oxidative stress and PDH activity, supporting a putative link between oxidative stress, AMPK, and pyruvate utilization. These differences in fetoplacental nutrient sensing and shuttling may represent adaptive strategies enabling the placenta to maintain oxidative metabolism at the expense of fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hannah M Kyllo
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Dong Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Ramón A Lorca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Colleen G Julian
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Lorna G Moore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Randall B Wilkening
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Paul J Rozance
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Laura D Brown
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
| | - Stephanie R Wesolowski
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado School of Medicine, Aurora, Colorado, United States
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Casati D, Lanna M, Mando' C, Zavatta A, Nelva Stellio L, Faiola S, Laoreti A, Anelli GM, Cetin I. Fetal oxygen and glucose utilization of uncomplicated monochorionic twins: Adapting to the intrauterine environment. Placenta 2023; 132:7-14. [PMID: 36603352 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.12.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 12/18/2022] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Monochorionic twins (MC) develop under unique intrauterine conditions and show a high risk of compromise during fetal life. Here we describe umbilical vein blood flow (UVBF) and fetal oxygen and glucose utilization in uncomplicated MC twins and investigate possible differences within twin-pairs according to birth-order. METHODS Prospective single-center study on 48 uncomplicated MC twins enrolled at the time of elective cesarean delivery. Ultrasound measurements of UVBF for Twin 1 and Twin 2 labelled according to birth-order were performed before spinal anesthesia. Umbilical arterial and venous blood samples were collected for each twin after fetal delivery, and fetal oxygen and glucose deliveries and uptakes were computed. RESULTS All twins were delivered within 2 min from one-another under steady-state conditions at 36.4 weeks of median gestational age (IQR 36.0-37.0). Birthweight and umbilical cord gas analyses were within physiological ranges for all twins. Second-born twins showed significantly lower UVBF, measured before delivery, and lower median birthweight compared to first-borns. Moreover, median values of estimated fetal oxygen and glucose consumption were lower in second compared to first MC twins. DISCUSSION Uncomplicated MC twins show different birthweight, oxygenation and metabolic rates based on their position in utero, hinting at pre-existing conditions possibly deriving by uneven vascular and metabolic distribution of the two placental territories. The innovative findings of this study emphasize the biological uniqueness of these pregnancies and prompt further physiological studies on MC twins and placenta metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Casati
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy.
| | - Mariano Lanna
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Chiara Mando'
- University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Milan, Italy
| | - Alice Zavatta
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Leonardo Nelva Stellio
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Stefano Faiola
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Arianna Laoreti
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy
| | - Gaia Maria Anelli
- University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Milan, Italy
| | - Irene Cetin
- Department of Woman, Mother and Neonate, Buzzi Children's Hospital, ASST Fatebenefratelli Sacco, Milan, Italy; University of Milan, Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences, Milan, Italy
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Hernández-Vásquez A, Bartra Reátegui A, Vargas-Fernández R. Altitude and Its Association with Low Birth Weight among Children of 151,873 Peruvian Women: A Pooled Analysis of a Nationally Representative Survey. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 20:1411. [PMID: 36674168 PMCID: PMC9859162 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to determine the relationship between the altitude of residence and the low birth weight (LBW) of the children of pregnant Peruvian women using a nationally representative database. An analysis of individual-level data from the last 13 years (from 2009 to 2021) of the Demographic and Family Health Survey was performed. The outcome variable was LBW, defined as birth weight less than 2500 g, while the independent variable was the altitude of residence in meters above sea level (masl). To estimate the association between the two variables, the crude and adjusted generalized linear model of the Poisson family with a log link was used along with crude and adjusted prevalence ratios, which were estimated with their respective 95% confidence interval. A total of 151,873 women aged 15-49 years were included between 2009 and 2021. The pooled proportion of LBW was 7.0%. As the main finding, the children of mothers residing at an altitude from 2500 to 3499 masl and ≥3500 masl had a higher probability of LBW. It was found that the children of mothers residing at an altitude above 2500 masl were more likely to have LBW. Our results will help to strengthen the cultural practice of maternal health care and increase its coverage in women residing in high-altitude regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Akram Hernández-Vásquez
- Centro de Excelencia en Investigaciones Económicas y Sociales en Salud, Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima 15024, Peru
| | - Alicia Bartra Reátegui
- Vicerrectorado de Investigación, Universidad Nacional de San Martín, Tarapoto 22201, Peru
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Aghaei Z, Mercer GV, Schneider CM, Sled JG, Macgowan CK, Baschat AA, Kingdom JC, Helm PA, Simpson AJ, Simpson MJ, Jobst KJ, Cahill LS. Maternal exposure to polystyrene microplastics alters placental metabolism in mice. Metabolomics 2022; 19:1. [PMID: 36538272 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-022-01967-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 12/05/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The rapid growth in the worldwide use of plastics has resulted in a vast accumulation of microplastics in the air, soil and water. The impact of these microplastics on pregnancy and fetal development remains largely unknown. In pregnant mice, we recently demonstrated that exposure to micro- and nanoplastics throughout gestation resulted in significant fetal growth restriction. One possible explanation for reduced fetal growth is abnormal placental metabolism. OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effect of maternal exposure to microplastics on placental metabolism. METHODS In the present study, CD-1 pregnant mice were exposed to 5 μm polystyrene microplastics in filtered drinking water at one of four concentrations (0 ng/L (controls), 102 ng/L, 104 ng/L, 106 ng/L) throughout gestation (n = 7-11/group). At embryonic day 17.5, placental tissue samples were collected (n = 28-44/group). Metabolite profiles were determined using 1 H high-resolution magic angle spinning magnetic resonance spectroscopy. RESULTS The relative concentration of lysine (p = 0.003) and glucose (p < 0.0001) in the placenta were found to decrease with increasing microplastic concentrations, with a significant reduction at the highest exposure concentration. Multivariate analysis identified shifts in the metabolic profile with MP exposure and pathway analysis identified perturbations in the biotin metabolism, lysine degradation, and glycolysis/gluconeogenesis pathways. CONCLUSION Maternal exposure to microplastics resulted in significant alterations in placental metabolism. This study highlights the potential impact of microplastic exposure on pregnancy outcomes and that efforts should be made to minimize exposure to plastics, particularly during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zahra Aghaei
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Arctic Avenue St. John's, A1C 5S7, Newfoundland, NL, Canada
| | - Grace V Mercer
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Arctic Avenue St. John's, A1C 5S7, Newfoundland, NL, Canada
| | - Céline M Schneider
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Arctic Avenue St. John's, A1C 5S7, Newfoundland, NL, Canada
| | - John G Sled
- Mouse Imaging Centre, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Christopher K Macgowan
- Translational Medicine, Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Medical Biophysics, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Ahmet A Baschat
- Department of Gynecology & Obstetrics, Johns Hopkins Center for Fetal Therapy, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, USA
| | - John C Kingdom
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Paul A Helm
- School of the Environment, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - André J Simpson
- Environmental NMR Centre, Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Myrna J Simpson
- Environmental NMR Centre, Department of Physical and Environmental Sciences, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Karl J Jobst
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Arctic Avenue St. John's, A1C 5S7, Newfoundland, NL, Canada
| | - Lindsay S Cahill
- Department of Chemistry, Memorial University of Newfoundland, Arctic Avenue St. John's, A1C 5S7, Newfoundland, NL, Canada.
- Discipline of Radiology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.
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Ssc-miR-92b-3p Regulates Porcine Trophoblast Cell Proliferation and Migration via the PFKM Gene. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:ijms232416138. [PMID: 36555776 PMCID: PMC9784024 DOI: 10.3390/ijms232416138] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2022] [Revised: 12/13/2022] [Accepted: 12/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Embryo implantation, the pivotal stage of gestation, is fundamentally dependent on synchronous embryonic development and uterine receptivity. In the early gestation period, the uterus and conceptus secrete growth factors, cytokines, and hormones to promote implantation. Circulating exosomal miRNAs are potential indicators of normal or complicated gestation. Our previous study revealed that pregnant sows' serum exosomes had upregulated miR-92b-3p expression compared to non-pregnant sows, and that the expression level progressively increased during early gestation. The present study's findings indicate that, compared to the ninth day of the estrous cycle (C9), pregnant sows had upregulated miR-92b-3p expression in the endometrium and embryos during the implantation stage ranging from day 9 to day 15 of gestation. Additionally, our results demonstrate that miR-92b-3p promotes the proliferation and migration of Porcine Trophoblast Cells (PTr2). Dual-Luciferase Reporter (DLR) gene assay, real-time fluorescent quantitative PCR (RT-qPCR), and Western blotting (WB) confirmed the bioinformatics prediction that phosphofructokinase-M (PFKM) serves as a target gene of miR-92b-3p. Notably, interference of PFKM gene expression markedly promoted PTr2 proliferation and migration. Furthermore, mice with downregulated uterine miR-92b-3p expression had smaller rates of successful embryo implantation. In summary, miR-92b-3p putatively modulates embryo implantation by promoting PTr2 proliferation and migration via its target gene PFKM.
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10
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Moore LG, Wesolowski SR, Lorca RA, Murray AJ, Julian CG. Why is human uterine artery blood flow during pregnancy so high? Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2022; 323:R694-R699. [PMID: 36094446 PMCID: PMC9602899 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00167.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/29/2022] [Revised: 08/12/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
In healthy near-term women, blood flow to the uteroplacental circulation is estimated as 841 mL/min, which is greater than in other mammalian species. We argue that as uterine venous Po2 sets the upper limit for O2 diffusion to the fetus, high uterine artery blood flow serves to narrow the maternal arterial-to-uterine venous Po2 gradient and thereby raise uterine vein Po2. In support, we show that the reported levels for uterine artery blood flow agree with what is required to maintain normal fetal growth. Although residence at high altitudes (>2,500 m) depresses fetal growth, not all populations are equally affected; Tibetans and Andeans have higher levels of uterine artery blood flow than newcomers and exhibit normal fetal growth. Estimates of uterine venous Po2 from the umbilical blood-gas data available from healthy Andean pregnancies indicate that their high levels of uterine artery blood flow are consistent with their reported, normal birth weights. Unknown, however, are the effects on placental gas exchange of the lower levels of uterine artery blood flow seen in high-altitude newcomers or hypoxia-associated pregnancy complications. We speculate that, by widening the maternal artery to uterine vein Po2 gradient, lower levels of uterine artery blood flow prompt metabolic changes that slow fetal growth to match O2 supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lorna G Moore
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | | | - Ramón A Lorca
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Andrew J Murray
- Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
| | - Colleen G Julian
- Department of Biomedical Informatics, University of Colorado Denver, Aurora, Colorado
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11
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Desoye G, Carter AM. Fetoplacental oxygen homeostasis in pregnancies with maternal diabetes mellitus and obesity. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2022; 18:593-607. [PMID: 35902735 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-022-00717-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
Despite improvements in clinical management, pregnancies complicated by pre-existing diabetes mellitus, gestational diabetes mellitus or obesity carry substantial risks for parent and offspring. Some of the endocrine and metabolic changes in parent and fetus in diabetes mellitus and obesity lead to fetal oxygen deficit, mostly due to insulin-induced accelerated fetal metabolism. The human fetus deals with reduced oxygenation through a wide range of adaptive responses that act at various levels in the placenta as well as the fetus. These responses ensure adequate oxygen delivery to the fetus, increase the oxygen transport capacity of fetal blood and redistribute oxygen-rich blood to vital organs such as the brain and heart. The liver has a central role in adapting to reduced oxygenation by increasing its oxygen extraction and stimulating erythropoietin synthesis to increase haematocrit. The type of adaptive response depends on the onset and duration of hypoxia and the severity of the metabolic disturbance. In pregnancies characterized by diabetes mellitus or obesity, these adaptive systems come under additional strain owing to the increased maternal supply of glucose and resultant fetal hyperinsulinaemia, both of which stimulate oxidative metabolism. In the rare situation that the adaptive responses are overwhelmed, stillbirth can ensue.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gernot Desoye
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria.
- Center for Pregnant Women with Diabetes, Department of Clinical Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Copenhagen, Denmark.
| | - Anthony M Carter
- Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, Odense, Denmark
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12
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Hypoxia signaling in human health and diseases: implications and prospects for therapeutics. Signal Transduct Target Ther 2022; 7:218. [PMID: 35798726 PMCID: PMC9261907 DOI: 10.1038/s41392-022-01080-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 110] [Impact Index Per Article: 55.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2022] [Revised: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 06/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Molecular oxygen (O2) is essential for most biological reactions in mammalian cells. When the intracellular oxygen content decreases, it is called hypoxia. The process of hypoxia is linked to several biological processes, including pathogenic microbe infection, metabolic adaptation, cancer, acute and chronic diseases, and other stress responses. The mechanism underlying cells respond to oxygen changes to mediate subsequent signal response is the central question during hypoxia. Hypoxia-inducible factors (HIFs) sense hypoxia to regulate the expressions of a series of downstream genes expression, which participate in multiple processes including cell metabolism, cell growth/death, cell proliferation, glycolysis, immune response, microbe infection, tumorigenesis, and metastasis. Importantly, hypoxia signaling also interacts with other cellular pathways, such as phosphoinositide 3-kinase (PI3K)-mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) signaling, nuclear factor kappa-B (NF-κB) pathway, extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK) signaling, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress. This paper systematically reviews the mechanisms of hypoxia signaling activation, the control of HIF signaling, and the function of HIF signaling in human health and diseases. In addition, the therapeutic targets involved in HIF signaling to balance health and diseases are summarized and highlighted, which would provide novel strategies for the design and development of therapeutic drugs.
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13
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Sibiak R, Ozegowska K, Wender-Ozegowska E, Gutaj P, Mozdziak P, Kempisty B. Fetomaternal Expression of Glucose Transporters (GLUTs)-Biochemical, Cellular and Clinical Aspects. Nutrients 2022; 14:2025. [PMID: 35631166 PMCID: PMC9146575 DOI: 10.3390/nu14102025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2022] [Revised: 04/28/2022] [Accepted: 05/11/2022] [Indexed: 12/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Several types of specialized glucose transporters (GLUTs) provide constant glucose transport from the maternal circulation to the developing fetus through the placental barrier from the early stages of pregnancy. GLUT1 is a prominent protein isoform that regulates placental glucose transfer via glucose-facilitated diffusion. The GLUT1 membrane protein density and permeability of the syncytial basal membrane (BM) are the main factors limiting the rate of glucose diffusion in the fetomaternal compartment in physiological conditions. Besides GLUT1, the GLUT3 and GLUT4 isoforms are widely expressed across the human placenta. Numerous medical conditions and molecules, such as hormones, adipokines, and xenobiotics, alter the GLUT's mRNA and protein expression. Diabetes upregulates the BM GLUT's density and promotes fetomaternal glucose transport, leading to excessive fetal growth. However, most studies have found no between-group differences in GLUTs' placental expression in macrosomic and normal control pregnancies. The fetomaternal GLUTs expression may also be influenced by several other conditions, such as chronic hypoxia, preeclampsia, and intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafal Sibiak
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-701 Poznan, Poland;
- Doctoral School, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-701 Poznan, Poland
| | - Katarzyna Ozegowska
- Department of Infertility and Reproductive Endocrinology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-701 Poznan, Poland;
| | - Ewa Wender-Ozegowska
- Department of Reproduction, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-701 Poznan, Poland; (E.W.-O.); (P.G.)
| | - Pawel Gutaj
- Department of Reproduction, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 61-701 Poznan, Poland; (E.W.-O.); (P.G.)
| | - Paul Mozdziak
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
| | - Bartosz Kempisty
- Department of Histology and Embryology, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-701 Poznan, Poland;
- Prestage Department of Poultry Science, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27695, USA;
- Department of Anatomy, Poznan University of Medical Sciences, 60-701 Poznan, Poland
- Department of Veterinary Surgery, Institute of Veterinary Medicine, Nicolaus Copernicus University in Torun, 87-100 Torun, Poland
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14
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Sutovska H, Babarikova K, Zeman M, Molcan L. Prenatal Hypoxia Affects Foetal Cardiovascular Regulatory Mechanisms in a Sex- and Circadian-Dependent Manner: A Review. Int J Mol Sci 2022; 23:2885. [PMID: 35270026 PMCID: PMC8910900 DOI: 10.3390/ijms23052885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2022] [Accepted: 03/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Prenatal hypoxia during the prenatal period can interfere with the developmental trajectory and lead to developing hypertension in adulthood. Prenatal hypoxia is often associated with intrauterine growth restriction that interferes with metabolism and can lead to multilevel changes. Therefore, we analysed the effects of prenatal hypoxia predominantly not associated with intrauterine growth restriction using publications up to September 2021. We focused on: (1) The response of cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms, such as the chemoreflex, adenosine, nitric oxide, and angiotensin II on prenatal hypoxia. (2) The role of the placenta in causing and attenuating the effects of hypoxia. (3) Environmental conditions and the mother's health contribution to the development of prenatal hypoxia. (4) The sex-dependent effects of prenatal hypoxia on cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms and the connection between hypoxia-inducible factors and circadian variability. We identified that the possible relationship between the effects of prenatal hypoxia on the cardiovascular regulatory mechanism may vary depending on circadian variability and phase of the days. In summary, even short-term prenatal hypoxia significantly affects cardiovascular regulatory mechanisms and programs hypertension in adulthood, while prenatal programming effects are not only dependent on the critical period, and sensitivity can change within circadian oscillations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Michal Zeman
- Department of Animal Physiology and Ethology, Faculty of Natural Sciences, Comenius University, 842 15 Bratislava, Slovakia; (H.S.); (K.B.); (L.M.)
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15
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Differential Expression of Glucose Transporter Proteins GLUT-1, GLUT-3, GLUT-8 and GLUT-12 in the Placenta of Macrosomic, Small-for-Gestational-Age and Growth-Restricted Foetuses. J Clin Med 2021; 10:jcm10245833. [PMID: 34945129 PMCID: PMC8705605 DOI: 10.3390/jcm10245833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Revised: 12/07/2021] [Accepted: 12/09/2021] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental transfer of glucose constitutes one of the major determinants of the intrauterine foetal growth. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the expression of glucose transporter proteins GLUT-1, GLUT-3, GLUT-8 and GLUT-12 in the placenta of macrosomic, small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and growth-restricted foetuses (FGR). A total of 70 placental tissue samples were collected from women who delivered macrosomic ≥4000 g (n = 26), SGA (n = 11), growth-restricted (n = 13) and healthy control neonates (n = 20). Computer-assisted quantitative morphometry of stained placental sections was performed to determine the expression of selected GLUT proteins. Immunohistochemical staining identified the presence of all glucose transporters in the placental tissue. Quantitative morphometric analysis performed for the vascular density-matched placental samples revealed a significant decrease in GLUT-1 and increase in GLUT-3 protein expression in pregnancies complicated by FGR as compared to other groups (p < 0.05). In addition, expression of GLUT-8 was significantly decreased among SGA foetuses (p < 0.05). No significant differences in GLUTs expression were observed in women delivering macrosomic neonates. In the SGA group foetal birth weight (FBW) was negatively correlated with GLUT-3 (rho = −0.59, p < 0.05) and positively with GLUT-12 (rho = 0.616, p < 0.05) placental expression. In addition, a positive correlation between FBW and GLUT-12 expression in the control group (rho = 0.536, p < 0.05) was noted. In placentas derived from FGR-complicated pregnancies the expression of two major glucose transporters GLUT-1 and GLUT-3 is altered. On the contrary, idiopathic foetal macrosomia is not associated with changes in the placental expression of GLUT-1, GLUT-3, GLUT-8 and GLUT-12 proteins.
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16
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Abstract
Heart disease remains one of the greatest killers. In addition to genetics and traditional lifestyle risk factors, we now understand that adverse conditions during pregnancy can also increase susceptibility to cardiovascular disease in the offspring. Therefore, the mechanisms by which this occurs and possible preventative therapies are of significant contemporary interest to the cardiovascular community. A common suboptimal pregnancy condition is a sustained reduction in fetal oxygenation. Chronic fetal hypoxia results from any pregnancy with increased placental vascular resistance, such as in preeclampsia, placental infection, or maternal obesity. Chronic fetal hypoxia may also arise during pregnancy at high altitude or because of maternal respiratory disease. This article reviews the short- and long-term effects of hypoxia on the fetal cardiovascular system, and the importance of chronic fetal hypoxia in triggering a developmental origin of future heart disease in the adult progeny. The work summarizes evidence derived from human studies as well as from rodent, avian, and ovine models. There is a focus on the discovery of the molecular link between prenatal hypoxia, oxidative stress, and increased cardiovascular risk in adult offspring. Discussion of mitochondria-targeted antioxidant therapy offers potential targets for clinical intervention in human pregnancy complicated by chronic fetal hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dino A Giussani
- Department of Physiology, Development, and Neuroscience; The Barcroft Centre; Cambridge Cardiovascular British Heart Foundation Centre for Research Excellence; and Cambridge Strategic Research Initiative in Reproduction, University of Cambridge, UK
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17
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Jones AK, Rozance PJ, Brown LD, Lorca RA, Julian CG, Moore LG, Limesand SW, Wesolowski SR. Uteroplacental nutrient flux and evidence for metabolic reprogramming during sustained hypoxemia. Physiol Rep 2021; 9:e15033. [PMID: 34558219 PMCID: PMC8461030 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.15033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 08/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
Gestational hypoxemia is often associated with reduced birth weight, yet how hypoxemia controls uteroplacental nutrient metabolism and supply to the fetus is unclear. This study tested the effects of maternal hypoxemia (HOX) between 0.8 and 0.9 gestation on uteroplacental nutrient metabolism and flux to the fetus in pregnant sheep. Despite hypoxemia, uteroplacental and fetal oxygen utilization and net glucose and lactate uptake rates were similar in HOX (n = 11) compared to CON (n = 7) groups. HOX fetuses had increased lactate and pyruvate concentrations and increased net pyruvate output to the utero-placenta. In the HOX group, uteroplacental flux of alanine to the fetus was decreased, as was glutamate flux from the fetus. HOX fetuses had increased alanine and decreased aspartate, serine, and glutamate concentrations. In HOX placental tissue, we identified hypoxic responses that should increase mitochondrial efficiency (decreased SDHB, increased COX4I2) and increase lactate production from pyruvate (increased LDHA protein and LDH activity, decreased LDHB and MPC2), both resembling metabolic reprogramming, but with evidence for decreased (PFK1, PKM2), rather than increased, glycolysis and AMPK phosphorylation. This supports a fetal-uteroplacental shuttle during sustained hypoxemia whereby uteroplacental tissues produce lactate as fuel for the fetus using pyruvate released from the fetus, rather than pyruvate produced from glucose in the placenta, given the absence of increased uteroplacental glucose uptake and glycolytic gene activation. Together, these results provide new mechanisms for how hypoxemia, independent of AMPK activation, regulates uteroplacental metabolism and nutrient allocation to the fetus, which allow the fetus to defend its oxidative metabolism and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amanda K. Jones
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Paul J. Rozance
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Laura D. Brown
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Ramón A. Lorca
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Colleen G. Julian
- Department of MedicineUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Lorna G. Moore
- Department of Obstetrics and GynecologyUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
| | - Sean W. Limesand
- School of Animal and Comparative Biomedical SciencesUniversity of ArizonaTucsonArizonaUSA
| | - Stephanie R. Wesolowski
- Perinatal Research Center, Department of PediatricsUniversity of Colorado School of MedicineAuroraColoradoUSA
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18
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Siragher E, Sferruzzi-Perri AN. Placental hypoxia: What have we learnt from small animal models? Placenta 2021; 113:29-47. [PMID: 34074553 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2021.03.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/24/2020] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine hypoxia is a feature of pregnancy complications, both at high altitude and sea level. To understand the placental response to reduced oxygen availability, small animal models of maternal inhalation hypoxia (MIH) or reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) may be utilised. The aim of this review was to compare the findings of those studies to identify the role of oxygen availability in adapting placental structural and functional phenotypes in relation to fetal outcome. It also sought to explore the evidence for the involvement of particular genes and protein signalling pathways in the placenta in mediating hypoxia driven alterations. The data available demonstrate that both MIH and RUPP can induce placental hypoxia, which affects placental structure and vascularity, as well as glucose, amino acid, calcium and possibly lipid transport capacity. In addition, changes have been observed in HIF, VEGF, insulin/IGF2, AMPK, mTOR, PI3K and PPARγ signalling, which may be key in linking together observed phenotypes under conditions of placental hypoxia. Many different manipulations have been examined, with varied outcomes depending on the intensity, timing and duration of the insult. Some manipulations have detrimental effects on placental phenotype, viability and fetal growth, whereas in others, the placenta appears to adapt to uphold fetal growth despite the challenge of low oxygen. Together these data suggest a complex response of the placenta to reduced oxygen availability, which links to changes in fetal outcomes. However, further work is required to explore the role of fetal sex, altered maternal physiology and placental molecular mechanisms to fully understand placental responses to hypoxia and their relevance for pregnancy outcome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma Siragher
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Downing Street, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK
| | - Amanda N Sferruzzi-Perri
- Centre for Trophoblast Research, Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, Downing Street, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, CB2 3EG, UK.
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19
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D'Errico JN, Fournier SB, Stapleton PA. Considering intrauterine location in a model of fetal growth restriction after maternal titanium dioxide nanoparticle inhalation. FRONTIERS IN TOXICOLOGY 2021; 3:643804. [PMID: 33997857 PMCID: PMC8121264 DOI: 10.3389/ftox.2021.643804] [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: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 02/22/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) is a condition with several underlying etiologies including gestational disease (e.g., preeclampsia, gestational diabetes) and xenobiotic exposure (e.g., environmental contaminants, pharmaceuticals, recreational drugs). Rodent models allow study of FGR pathogenesis. However, given the multiparous rodent pregnancy, fetal growth variability within uterine horns may arise. To ascertain whether intrauterine position is a determinant of fetal growth, we redesigned fetal weight analysis to include litter size and maternal weight. Our FGR model is produced by exposing pregnant Sprague Dawley rats to aerosolized titanium dioxide nanoparticles at 9.44 ± 0.26 mg/m3 on gestational day (GD) 4, GD 12 or GD 17 or 9.53 ± 1.01 mg/m3 between GD 4-GD 19. In this study fetal weight data was reorganized by intrauterine location [i.e., right/left uterine horn and ovarian/middle/vaginal position] and normalized by maternal weight and number of feti per uterine horn. A significant difference in fetal weight in the middle location in controls (0.061g ± 0.001 vs. 0.055g ± 0.002), GD 4 (0.033g ± 0.003 vs. 0.049g ± 0.004), and GD 17 (0.047g ± 0.002 vs. 0.038g ± 0.002) exposed animals was identified. Additionally, GD 4 exposure produced significantly smaller feti in the right uterine horn at the ovarian end (0.052g ± 0.003 vs. 0.029g ± 0.003) and middle of the right uterine horn (0.060g ± 0.001 vs. 0.033g ± 0.003). GD 17 exposure produced significantly smaller feti in the left uterine horn middle location (0.055g ± 0.002 vs. 0.033 ± 0.002). Placental weights were unaffected, and placental efficiency was reduced in the right uterine horn middle location after GD 17 exposure (5.74g ± 0.16 vs. 5.09g ± 0.14). These findings identified: 1) differences in fetal weight of controls between the right and left horns in the middle position, and 2) differential effects of single whole-body pulmonary exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles on fetal weight by position and window of maternal exposure. In conclusion, these results indicate that consideration for intrauterine position, maternal weight, and number of feti per horn provides a more sensitive assessment of FGR from rodent reproductive and developmental studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- J. N. D'Errico
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - S. B. Fournier
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, NJ, United States
| | - P. A. Stapleton
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Ernest Mario School of Pharmacy, Rutgers University, Piscataway, NJ, United States
- Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences Institute, Piscataway, NJ, United States
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20
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Robertson CE, Wilsterman K. Developmental and reproductive physiology of small mammals at high altitude: challenges and evolutionary innovations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020; 223:223/24/jeb215350. [PMID: 33443053 DOI: 10.1242/jeb.215350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
High-altitude environments, characterized by low oxygen levels and low ambient temperatures, have been repeatedly colonized by small altricial mammals. These species inhabit mountainous regions year-round, enduring chronic cold and hypoxia. The adaptations that allow small mammals to thrive at altitude have been well studied in non-reproducing adults; however, our knowledge of adaptations specific to earlier life stages and reproductive females is extremely limited. In lowland natives, chronic hypoxia during gestation affects maternal physiology and placental function, ultimately limiting fetal growth. During post-natal development, hypoxia and cold further limit growth both directly by acting on neonatal physiology and indirectly via impacts on maternal milk production and care. Although lowland natives can survive brief sojourns to even extreme high altitude as adults, reproductive success in these environments is very low, and lowland young rarely survive to sexual maturity in chronic cold and hypoxia. Here, we review the limits to maternal and offspring physiology - both pre-natal and post-natal - that highland-adapted species have overcome, with a focus on recent studies on high-altitude populations of the North American deer mouse (Peromyscus maniculatus). We conclude that a combination of maternal and developmental adaptations were likely to have been critical steps in the evolutionary history of high-altitude native mammals.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Kathryn Wilsterman
- Division of Biological Sciences, University of Montana, Missoula, MT 59802, USA
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21
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Wang P, He C, Yue M, Wang T, Bai L, Wu Y, Liu D, Wang M, Sun Y, Li Y, Zhang S, Liu H. The AT1 receptor autoantibody causes hypoglycemia in fetal rats via promoting the STT3A-GLUT1-glucose uptake axis in liver. Mol Cell Endocrinol 2020; 518:111022. [PMID: 32871226 DOI: 10.1016/j.mce.2020.111022] [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: 04/01/2020] [Revised: 08/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
Blood glucose is of great importance to development and metabolic homeostasis in fetuses. Stimulation of harmful factors during gestation induces pathoglycemia. Angiotensin II type 1 receptor autoantibody (AT1-AA), a newly discovered gestational harmful factor, has been shown to induce intrauterine growth restriction in fetuses and glucose disorders in adults. However, whether and how AT1-AA influences the blood glucose level of fetuses during gestation is not yet clear. The purpose of the current study was to observe the fetal blood glucose level of AT1-AA-positive pregnant rats during late pregnancy and to determine the roles that hepatic glucose transporters play in this process. We established AT1-AA-positive pregnant rats by injecting AT1-AA into the caudal veins of rats in the 2nd trimester of gestation. Although the fetal blood glucose level in the 3rd trimester of gestation decreased, hepatic glucose uptake increased detected. Through separating membrane and cytosolic proteins, we demonstrated that both the expression and membrane transport ratio of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1), which is responsible for glucose transport in fetal hepatocytes, were upregulated, accompanied by increased expression of N-glycosyltransferase STT3A, which contributes to the N-glycosylation of GLUT1. In vitro, we identified that AT1-AA increased glucose uptake, the expression and membrane transport ratio of GLUT1 and the expression of STT3A in HepG2 cell lines via separating membrane and cytosolic proteins and immunofluorescence, resulting in the decreased glucose content in the medium. The GLUT1 inhibitor WZB117 reversed the decreases in glucose content in the medium, the increases in glucose uptake, the increases in the expression and membrane transport ratio of GLUT1 caused by AT1-AA. The N-glycosyltransferase inhibitor NGI as well as si-STT3A reversed the AT1-AA-induced upregulation of the STT3A-GLUT1-glucose uptake effect. This study demonstrates that AT1-AA lowers the blood glucose level of fetuses via the STT3A-GLUT1-glucose uptake axis in liver.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengli Wang
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Chunyu He
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Mingming Yue
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Tongtong Wang
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Lina Bai
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Ye Wu
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Dan Liu
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Yan Jing Medical College, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 101300, PR China
| | - Meili Wang
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Yan Sun
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China
| | - Yan Li
- Center for Anesthesiology, Beijing Anzhen Hospital, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100029, PR China
| | - Suli Zhang
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China.
| | - Huirong Liu
- Department of Physiology & Pathophysiology, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; Beijing Key Laboratory of Metabolic Disorder Related Cardiovascular Disease, Capital Medical University, Beijing, 100069, PR China; The Key Laboratory of Remodeling-related Cardiovascular Diseases, Ministry of Education, Beijing, 100029, PR China.
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22
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Coats LE, Bamrick-Fernandez DR, Ariatti AM, Bakrania BA, Rawls AZ, Ojeda NB, Alexander BT. Stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase diminishes intrauterine growth restriction in a rat model of placental ischemia. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 320:R149-R161. [PMID: 33175587 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00234.2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Placental ischemia in preeclampsia (PE) results in hypertension and intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR). Stimulation of soluble guanylate cyclase (sGC) reduces blood pressure in the clinically relevant reduced uterine perfusion pressure (RUPP) rat model of PE, implicating involvement in RUPP-induced hypertension. However, the contribution of sGC in the development of IUGR in PE is not known. Thus, this study demonstrated the efficacy of Riociguat, an sGC stimulator, in IUGR reversion in the RUPP rat model of PE, and tested the hypothesis that improvement in fetal weight occurs in association with improvement in placental perfusion, placental morphology, and placental nutrient transport protein expression. Sham or RUPP surgery was performed at gestational day 14 (G14) with administration of vehicle (Sham or RUPP) or the sGC stimulator (Riociguat, 10 mg/kg/day sc; sGC-treated) until G20. Fetal weight was reduced (P = 0.004) at G20 in RUPP but not in sGC-treated RUPP compared with Sham, the control group. At G20, uterine artery resistance index (UARI) was increased (P = 0.010) in RUPP, indicating poor placental perfusion; proportional junctional zone surface area was elevated (P = 0.035), indicating impaired placental development. These effects were ameliorated in sGC-treated RUPP. Placental protein expression of nutrient transporter heart fatty acid-binding protein (hFABP) was increased (P = 0.008) in RUPP but not in sGC-treated RUPP, suggesting a compensatory mechanism to maintain normal neurodevelopment. Yet, UARI (P < 0.001), proportional junctional zone surface area (P = 0.013), and placental hFABP protein expression (P = 0.008) were increased in sGC-treated Sham, suggesting a potential adverse effect of Riociguat. Collectively, these results suggest sGC contributes to IUGR in PE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura E Coats
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | | | - Allison M Ariatti
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Bhavisha A Bakrania
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Adam Z Rawls
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Norma B Ojeda
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
| | - Barbara T Alexander
- Department of Physiology and Biophysics, University of Mississippi Medical Center, Jackson, Mississippi
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23
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Maternal altitude and risk of low birthweight: A systematic review and meta-analyses. Placenta 2020; 101:124-131. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2020.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2020] [Revised: 09/07/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
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24
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Lin Q, Liu J, Xu S, Ning X, Tu J, Yang Q, Wang J. Epidemiological Features of Glycemic Levels and Relative Determinants at Different Altitudes Among Tibetans in China: A Cross-Sectional Population-Based Study. Front Public Health 2020; 8:472. [PMID: 33014972 PMCID: PMC7511752 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2020.00472] [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] [Received: 08/12/2019] [Accepted: 07/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Risk factors associated with diabetes mellitus have been widely researched worldwide, but the determinants of glycemic levels among Tibetans in China are currently unclear. We thus aimed to determine the relationship between altitude and glycemic levels and to identify factors associated with glycemic levels among Tibetans in China. In 2011, a total of 1,659 Tibetans (aged ≥18 years) from Changdu, China, were enrolled to this cross-sectional research. Potential factors associated with postprandial glucose (PPG), fasting plasma glucose (FPG), and insulin (INS) levels were assessed. FPG and PPG levels increased with age and total cholesterol (TC) level. In addition, FPG levels were higher among patients with rural residence and hypertension, while PPG levels increased with increasing BMI. INS levels increased with residence, lower education, higher BMI, and higher TG levels and decreased with higher altitude and TC levels. Moreover, risk factors for FPG, PPG, and INS differed in those residing at a higher altitude. These findings identify several important risk factors that affect glycemic levels and may be used to develop effective strategies for metabolic disease prevention among populations in high-altitude areas. Furthermore, these findings suggest that it is necessary to formulate a standard for PPG, FPG, and INS in high-altitude areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiuxing Lin
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Laboratory of Epidemiology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neuroinjury Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China
| | - Jie Liu
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Laboratory of Epidemiology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neuroinjury Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China
| | - Shaopeng Xu
- Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Xianjia Ning
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Laboratory of Epidemiology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neuroinjury Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China
| | - Jun Tu
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Laboratory of Epidemiology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neuroinjury Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China
| | - Qing Yang
- Department of Cardiology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China
| | - Jinghua Wang
- Department of Neurology, Tianjin Medical University General Hospital, Tianjin, China.,Laboratory of Epidemiology, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China.,Key Laboratory of Post-Neuroinjury Neuro-repair and Regeneration in Central Nervous System, Ministry of Education and Tianjin City, Tianjin Neurological Institute, Tianjin, China
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25
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Hassan B. Interpretation of maternal blood glucose during pregnancy at high altitude area, Abha-Saudi Arabia. J Family Med Prim Care 2020; 9:4633-4636. [PMID: 33209775 PMCID: PMC7652192 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_747_20] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2020] [Revised: 06/11/2020] [Accepted: 06/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and Aims: In women who reside at high altitude, fasting plasma glucose is lower than at sea level, and further decrease of fasting blood glucose was noticed during pregnancy. This study aimed to set cutoff level of fasting plasma glucose during pregnancy at high altitude. The obtained data intended for interpretation of gestational blood sugar results and early detection of those who at risk of developing gestational diabetes. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted to determine the cutoff level of fasting plasma glucose during pregnancy at high altitude. The subjects were pregnant women who attending the routine antenatal care at Abha Maternity Hospital and Mahayil Aseer Maternity hospital. Plasma glucose concentrations and Body Mass Index (BMI), socio-demographic and obstetric data were entered into the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20. Comparison amongst these variables were carried out through t test (numerical variables) and Chi Square test (proportions). A P value of <0.05 was considered as statistically significant. Results: The overall results obtained indicated that the fasting plasma glucose concentrations and BMI were significantly lower (p = 0.0001) at high altitude area (Abha) than low altitude area (Mahayil Aseer). Age was the only socio-demographic factor that showed significant difference between the two groups (p-value was <0.05). Conclusion: Up to our knowledge, this is the first study addressing the interpretation of fasting blood glucose during pregnancy at high altitude area in Saudi Arabia. Our findings support the importance of careful interpretation of fasting blood glucose of pregnant women who reside at high altitude areas. The implementation of this policy at high altitude areas in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is recommended for early detection of gestational diabetes and timed intervention to avoid complications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bahaeldin Hassan
- Assistant Professor, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, College of Medicine, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
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26
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Aplin JD, Myers JE, Timms K, Westwood M. Tracking placental development in health and disease. Nat Rev Endocrinol 2020; 16:479-494. [PMID: 32601352 DOI: 10.1038/s41574-020-0372-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 162] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/15/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction arise from disorders of placental development and have some shared mechanistic features. Initiation is often rooted in the maldevelopment of a maternal-placental blood supply capable of providing for the growth requirements of the fetus in later pregnancy, without exerting undue stress on maternal body systems. Here, we review normal development of a placental bed with a safe and adequate blood supply and a villous placenta-blood interface from which nutrients and oxygen can be extracted for the growing fetus. We consider disease mechanisms that are intrinsic to the maternal environment, the placenta or the interaction between the two. Systemic signalling from the endocrine placenta targets the maternal endothelium and multiple organs to adjust metabolism for an optimal pregnancy and later lactation. This signalling capacity is skewed when placental damage occurs and can deliver a dangerous pathogenic stimulus. We discuss the placental secretome including glycoproteins, microRNAs and extracellular vesicles as potential biomarkers of disease. Angiomodulatory mediators, currently the only effective biomarkers, are discussed alongside non-invasive imaging approaches to the prediction of disease risk. Identifying the signs of impending pathology early enough to intervene and ameliorate disease in later pregnancy remains a complex and challenging objective.
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Affiliation(s)
- John D Aplin
- Maternal and Fetal Health Group, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK.
| | - Jenny E Myers
- Maternal and Fetal Health Group, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
| | - Kate Timms
- Lydia Becker Institute of Inflammation and Immunology, The University of Manchester, Manchester, UK
| | - Melissa Westwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Group, Manchester Academic Health Sciences Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK
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27
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Skeffington KL, Beck C, Itani N, Niu Y, Shaw CJ, Giussani DA. Hypertension Programmed in Adult Hens by Isolated Effects of Developmental Hypoxia In Ovo. Hypertension 2020; 76:533-544. [PMID: 32536277 PMCID: PMC7340221 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.120.15045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
In mammals, pregnancy complicated by chronic hypoxia can program hypertension in the adult offspring. However, mechanisms remain uncertain because the partial contributions of the challenge on the placenta, mother, and fetus are difficult to disentangle. Here, we used chronic hypoxia in the chicken embryo-an established model system that permits isolation of the direct effects of developmental hypoxia on the cardiovascular system of the offspring, independent of additional effects on the mother or the placenta. Fertilized chicken eggs were exposed to normoxia (N; 21% O2) or hypoxia (H; 13.5%-14% O2) from the start of incubation (day 0) until day 19 (hatching, ≈day 21). Following hatching, all birds were maintained under normoxic conditions until ≈6 months of adulthood. Hypoxic incubation increased hematocrit (+27%) in the chicken embryo and induced asymmetrical growth restriction (body weight, -8.6%; biparietal diameter/body weight ratio, +7.5%) in the hatchlings (all P<0.05). At adulthood (181±4 days), chickens from hypoxic incubations remained smaller (body weight, -7.5%) and showed reduced basal and stimulated in vivo NO bioavailability (pressor response to NG-nitro-L-arginine methyl ester, -43%; phenylephrine pressor response during NO blockade, -61%) with significant hypertension (mean arterial blood pressure, +18%), increased cardiac work (ejection fraction, +12%; fractional shortening, +25%; enhanced baroreflex gain, +456%), and left ventricular wall thickening (left ventricular wall volume, +36%; all P<0.05). Therefore, we show that chronic hypoxia can act directly on a developing embryo to program hypertension, cardiovascular dysfunction, and cardiac wall remodeling in adulthood in the absence of any maternal or placental effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie L. Skeffington
- From the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.L.S., C.B., N.I., Y.N., C.J.S., D.A.G.)
| | - Christian Beck
- From the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.L.S., C.B., N.I., Y.N., C.J.S., D.A.G.)
| | - Nozomi Itani
- From the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.L.S., C.B., N.I., Y.N., C.J.S., D.A.G.)
| | - Youguo Niu
- From the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.L.S., C.B., N.I., Y.N., C.J.S., D.A.G.)
| | - Caroline J. Shaw
- From the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.L.S., C.B., N.I., Y.N., C.J.S., D.A.G.),Department of Metabolism, Digestion and Reproduction, Institute of Reproductive and Developmental Biology, Imperial College London, United Kingdom (C.J.S.)
| | - Dino A. Giussani
- From the Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (K.L.S., C.B., N.I., Y.N., C.J.S., D.A.G.)
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28
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Maternal exposure to low-to-medium altitude and birth outcomes: evidence from a population-based study in Chinese newborns. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2020; 12:443-451. [PMID: 32662389 DOI: 10.1017/s204017442000063x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Despite high altitude was implicated in adverse birth outcomes, there remained a paucity of evidence on low-to-medium altitude effect. This study aimed to explore the association of low-to-medium altitude with birth outcomes. A population-based cross-sectional survey was performed using a stratified multistage random sampling method among women with their infants born during 2010-2013 in Northwestern China. Altitude was determined in meters based on the village or community of the mother's living areas. Birth outcomes involved birth weight, gestational age, and small for gestational age (SGA). Generalized linear models were fitted to investigate the association of altitude with birth outcomes. Moreover, the dose-response relationship between altitude and birth outcomes was evaluated with a restricted cubic spline function. A total of 27 801 women with their infants were included. After adjusting for potential confounders, every 100-m increase in the altitude was associated with reduced birth weight by 6.4 (95% CI -8.1, -4.6) g, the slight increase of gestational age by 0.015 (95% CI 0.010, 0.020) week, and an increased risk of SGA birth (odds ratio 1.03, 95% CI 1.02, 1.04). Moreover, there was an inversely linear relationship between altitude and birth weight (P for overall < 0.001 and P for nonlinear = 0.312), and a positive linear relationship between altitude and SGA (P for overall < 0.001 and P for nonlinear = 0.194). However, a nonlinear relationship was observed between altitude and gestational age (P for overall < 0.001 and P for nonlinear = 0.010). The present results suggest that low-to-medium altitude is possibly associated with adverse birth outcomes.
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29
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Thompson LP, Turan S, Aberdeen GW. Sex differences and the effects of intrauterine hypoxia on growth and in vivo heart function of fetal guinea pigs. Am J Physiol Regul Integr Comp Physiol 2020; 319:R243-R254. [PMID: 32639864 DOI: 10.1152/ajpregu.00249.2019] [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] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
We hypothesized that the physiological adaptations of the fetus in response to chronic intrauterine hypoxia depend on its sex and the gestational age of exposure. Pregnant guinea pigs were exposed to room air (normoxia, NMX) or 10.5% O2 (hypoxia, HPX) at either 25 days (early onset) or 50 days (late onset) of gestation until term (~65 days). We evaluated the effects of HPX on hemodynamic and cardiac function indices using Doppler ultrasound and determined sex-related differences in near-term fetuses. Indices of uterine/umbilical artery pulsatility (PI index) and fetal heart systolic and diastolic function [Tei index and passive filling (E-wave) to filling due to atrial contraction (A-wave) (E/A ratios), respectively] were measured in utero and fetal body (FBW) and organ weights measured from extracted fetuses. Both early- and late-onset HPX decreased FBW in both males and females, had no effect on placenta weights, and increased placenta weight-to-FBW ratios. Early- but not late-onset HPX increased uterine artery PI, but neither HPX condition affected umbilical artery PI. Early-onset HPX increased left ventricle E/A ratios in both males and females, whereas late-onset HPX increased the right ventricle E/A ratio in females only. Hypoxia had no effect on the Tei index in either sex. Early- and late-onset HPX induce placental insufficiency and fetal growth restriction and increase diastolic filling depending on the sex, with female fetuses having a greater capacity than males to compensate for intrauterine hypoxia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loren P Thompson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Shifa Turan
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Graham W Aberdeen
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland
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30
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Cetin I, Taricco E, Mandò C, Radaelli T, Boito S, Nuzzo AM, Giussani DA. Fetal Oxygen and Glucose Consumption in Human Pregnancy Complicated by Fetal Growth Restriction. Hypertension 2020; 75:748-754. [PMID: 31884857 DOI: 10.1161/hypertensionaha.119.13727] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
In healthy pregnancy, glucose and oxygen availability are essential for fetal growth and well being. However, how substrate delivery and fetal uptake are affected in human pregnancy complicated by fetal growth restriction (FGR) is still unknown. Here, we show that the human FGR fetus has a strikingly reduced umbilical uptake of both oxygen and glucose. In 30 healthy term and 32 FGR human pregnancies, umbilical volume flow (Qumb) and parallel umbilical vein (uv) and artery (ua) blood samples were obtained at elective Cesarean section to calculate fetal glucose and oxygen uptake as Qumb · Δ (uv-ua) differences. Umbilical blood flow was significantly lower in FGR pregnancy (-63%; P<0.001) but not when normalized for fetal body weight. FGR pregnancy had significantly lower umbilical oxygen delivery and uptake, both as absolute values (delivery: -78%; uptake: -78%) and normalized (delivery: -50%; uptake: -48%) for fetal body weight (all P<0.001). Umbilical glucose absolute delivery and uptake were significantly reduced (delivery: -68%; uptake: -72%) but only glucose uptake was decreased when normalized for fetal body weight (-30%; P<0.05). The glucose/oxygen quotient was significantly increased (+100%; P<0.05) while glucose clearance was significantly decreased (71%; P<0.001) in FGR pregnancy (both P<0.05). The human fetus in FGR pregnancy triggers compensatory mechanisms to reduce its metabolic rate, matching the proportion of substrate consumption relative to oxygen delivery as a survival strategy during complicated pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Irene Cetin
- From the Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy (I.C., E.T., C.M.)
| | - Emanuela Taricco
- From the Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy (I.C., E.T., C.M.)
| | - Chiara Mandò
- From the Department of Biomedical and Clinical Sciences Luigi Sacco, Università degli Studi di Milano, Italy (I.C., E.T., C.M.)
| | - Tatjana Radaelli
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy (T.R., S.B.)
| | - Simona Boito
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology "L. Mangiagalli", Fondazione IRCCS Ca' Granda, Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico, Milan, Italy (T.R., S.B.)
| | - Anna Maria Nuzzo
- Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Turin, Italy (A.M.N.)
| | - Dino A Giussani
- Department of Physiology Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, United Kingdom (D.A.G.)
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31
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Stanirowski PJ, Lipa M, Bomba-Opoń D, Wielgoś M. Expression of placental glucose transporter proteins in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth disorders. ADVANCES IN PROTEIN CHEMISTRY AND STRUCTURAL BIOLOGY 2020; 123:95-131. [PMID: 33485490 DOI: 10.1016/bs.apcsb.2019.12.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
During pregnancy fetal growth disorders, including fetal macrosomia and fetal growth restriction (FGR) are associated with numerous maternal-fetal complications, as well as due to the adverse effect of the intrauterine environment lead to an increased morbidity in adult life. Accumulating evidence suggests that occurrence of fetal macrosomia or FGR, may be associated with alterations in the transfer of nutrients across the placenta, in particular of glucose. The placental expression and activity of specific GLUT transporters are the main regulatory factors in the process of maternal-fetal glucose exchange. This review article summarizes the results of previous studies on the expression of GLUT transporters in the placenta, concentrating on human pregnancies complicated by intrauterine fetal growth disorders. Characteristics of each transporter protein found in the placenta is presented, alterations in the location and expression of GLUT isoforms observed in individual placental compartments are described, and the factors regulating the expression of selected GLUT proteins are examined. Based on the above data, the potential function of each GLUT isoform in the maternal-fetal glucose transfer is determined. Further on, a detailed analysis of changes in the expression of glucose transporters in pregnancies complicated by fetal growth disorders is given, and significance of these modifications for the pathogenesis of fetal macrosomia and FGR is discussed. In the final part novel interventional approaches that might reduce the risk associated with abnormalities of intrauterine fetal growth through modifications of placental GLUT-mediated glucose transfer are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paweł Jan Stanirowski
- 1(st) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland; Club 35. Polish Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Michał Lipa
- 1(st) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland; Club 35. Polish Society of Gynecologists and Obstetricians, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dorota Bomba-Opoń
- 1(st) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mirosław Wielgoś
- 1(st) Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Warsaw, Warsaw, Poland
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32
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In Vivo and In Vitro Models of Diabetes: A Focus on Pregnancy. ADVANCES IN EXPERIMENTAL MEDICINE AND BIOLOGY 2020; 1307:553-576. [PMID: 32504388 DOI: 10.1007/5584_2020_536] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Diabetes in pregnancy is associated with an increased risk of poor outcomes, both for the mother and her offspring. Although clinical and epidemiological studies are invaluable to assess these outcomes and the effectiveness of potential treatments, there are certain ethical and practical limitations to what can be assessed in human studies.Thus, both in vivo and in vitro models can aid us in the understanding of the mechanisms behind these complications and, in the long run, towards their prevention and treatment. This review summarizes the existing animal and cell models used to mimic diabetes, with a specific focus on the intrauterine environment. Summary of this review.
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Teramo K, Piñeiro-Ramos JD. Fetal chronic hypoxia and oxidative stress in diabetic pregnancy. Could fetal erythropoietin improve offspring outcomes? Free Radic Biol Med 2019; 142:32-37. [PMID: 30898666 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2019.03.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Oxidative stress is responsible for microvascular complications (hypertension, nephropathy, retinopathy, peripheral neuropathy) of diabetes, which during pregnancy increase both maternal and fetal complications. Chronic hypoxia and hyperglycemia result in increased oxidative stress and decreased antioxidant enzyme activity. However, oxidative stress induces also anti-oxidative reactions both in pregnant diabetes patients and in their fetuses. Not all type 1 diabetes patients with long-lasting disease develop microvascular complications, which suggests that some of these patients have protective mechanisms against these complications. Fetal erythropoietin (EPO) is the main regulator of red cell production in the mother and in the fetus, but it has also protective effects in various maternal and fetal tissues. This dual effect of EPO is based on EPO receptor (EPO-R) isoforms, which differ structurally and functionally from the hematopoietic EPO-R isoform. The tissue protective effects of EPO are based on its anti-apoptotic, anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory, cell proliferative and angiogenic properties. Recent experimental and clinical studies have shown that EPO has also positive metabolic effects on hyperglycemia and diabetes, although these have not yet been fully delineated. Whether the tissue protective and metabolic effects of EPO could have clinical benefits, are important topics for future research in diabetic pregnancies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kari Teramo
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Hospital, Helsinki, Finland.
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34
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Ertl R, Waldhoer T, Yang L. Moderate altitude impacts birth weight: 30 years retrospective sibling analyses using record linkage data. Pediatr Res 2019; 86:403-407. [PMID: 31112991 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-019-0434-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2018] [Revised: 04/09/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We investigated the effect of a change of altitude of maternal living address on infant birth weight. METHOD Data on infant birth weights of the first and second pregnancies from same women were extracted from all Austrian birth certificates between 1984 and 2016. RESULTS A total of 544,624 pair pregnancies were identified and analyzed. We observed a statistically significant interaction (p < .0001) between altitudes of two births and birth weight. Among women having first birth at low altitude (200 m), the estimated second mean birth weight was 3567 g for those remained at low altitudes, and reduced to 3536 g for those ascended (1200 m). In contrast, among women having first births at high altitudes, the estimated birth weight of second birth at high altitude was 3414 g, yet increased to 3499 g compared to those descended to lower altitudes. CONCLUSION We demonstrated a longitudinal negative effect of altitude on birth weight within the same mother from first and second birth. This association is likely to be casual. Relocation of mothers within low-to-medium altitude level may have profound effects on infants' birth weight.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Thomas Waldhoer
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.
| | - Lin Yang
- Department of Epidemiology, Center for Public Health, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Cancer Epidemiology and Prevention Research, CancerControl Alberta, Alberta Health Services, Calgary, AL, Canada.,Departments of Oncology & Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, AL, Canada
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Beetham KS, Giles C, Noetel M, Clifton V, Jones JC, Naughton G. The effects of vigorous intensity exercise in the third trimester of pregnancy: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2019; 19:281. [PMID: 31391016 PMCID: PMC6686535 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-019-2441-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Accepted: 07/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Fetal growth is dependent upon utero-placental vascular supply of oxygen and nutrients from the mother and has been proposed to be compromised by vigorous intensity exercise in the third trimester. The aim of this systematic review was to investigate the effects of vigorous intensity exercise performed throughout pregnancy, on infant and maternal outcomes. Methods Electronic searching of the PubMed, Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science and CINAHL databases was used to conduct the search up to November 2018. Study designs included in the systematic review were randomised control trials, quasi-experimental studies, cohort studies and case-control studies. The studies were required to include an intervention or report of pregnant women performing vigorous exercise during gestation, with a comparator group of either lower intensity exercise or standard care. Results Ten cohort studies (n = 32,080) and five randomized control trials (n = 623) were included in the systematic review (n = 15), with 13 studies included in the meta-analysis. No significant difference existed in birthweight for infants of mothers who engaged in vigorous physical activity and those who lacked this exposure (mean difference = 8.06 g, n = 8006). Moreover, no significant increase existed in risk of small for gestational age (risk ratio = 0.15, n = 4504), risk of low birth weight (< 2500 g) (risk ratio = 0.44, n = 2454) or maternal weight gain (mean difference = − 0.46 kg, n = 1834). Women who engaged in vigorous physical activity had a small but significant increase in length of gestational age before delivery (mean difference = 0.21 weeks, n = 4281) and a small but significantly reduced risk of prematurity (risk ratio = − 0.20, n = 3025). Conclusions Findings from this meta-analysis indicate that vigorous intensity exercise completed into the third trimester appears to be safe for most healthy pregnancies. Further research is needed on the effects of vigorous intensity exercise in the first and second trimester, and of exercise intensity exceeding 90% of maximum heart rate. Trial registration PROSPERO trial registration CRD42018102109. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s12884-019-2441-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kassia S Beetham
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, 1100 Nudgee Road, Banyo, Brisbane, Queensland, 4014, Australia.
| | - Courtney Giles
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, 1100 Nudgee Road, Banyo, Brisbane, Queensland, 4014, Australia
| | - Michael Noetel
- School of Behavioural and Health Sciences, Australian Catholic University, 1100 Nudgee Road, Banyo, Brisbane, Queensland, 4014, Australia
| | - Vicki Clifton
- Pregnancy and Development, Mater Research Institute-University of Queensland, Translational Research Institute, South Brisbane, Queensland, Australia
| | - Jacqueline C Jones
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology Department, Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Geraldine Naughton
- Department of Educational Studies, Macquarie University, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,School of Health Sciences, Swinburne University of Technology, Melbourne, Victoria, Australia
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Borges MH, Pullockaran J, Catalano PM, Baumann MU, Zamudio S, Illsley NP. Human placental GLUT1 glucose transporter expression and the fetal insulin-like growth factor axis in pregnancies complicated by diabetes. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2019; 1865:2411-2419. [PMID: 31175930 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2019.06.002] [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: 01/21/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2019] [Accepted: 06/03/2019] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
We have previously described regulation of syncytial GLUT1 glucose transporters by IGF-I. Despite this, it is not clear what signal regulates transplacental glucose transport. In this report we asked whether changes in GLUT1 expression and glucose transport activity in diabetic pregnancies were associated with alterations in the fetal IGF axis. Cord blood samples and paired syncytial microvillous and basal membranes were isolated from normal term pregnancies and pregnancies characterized by gestational diabetes type A2 (GDM A2) and pre-existing insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (IDDM). Circulating IGF-I, basal membrane GLUT1 expression and glucose transporter activity were correlated with birth weight, but only in control, not diabetic groups. Basal membrane GLUT1 and transporter activity were correlated with IGF-I concentrations in control, but not diabetic groups. IGF binding protein (IGFBP) binding capacity showed a ≥50% reduction in the diabetic groups compared to control; both showed a higher level of free IGF-I. The absence of a correlation between birth weight and factors such as fetal IGF-I or GLUT1 expression in the diabetic groups suggests that IGF-I-stimulated effects may have reached a limiting threshold, such that further increases in IGF-I (or GLUT1) are without effect. These data support that fetal IGF-I acts as a fetal nutritional signal, modulating placental GLUT1 expression and birth weight via altered levels of fetal circulating IGFBPs. Diabetes appears to exert its effects on fetal and placental factors prior to the third trimester and, despite good glycemic control immediately prior to, and in the third trimester, these effects persist to term.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcus H Borges
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States of America
| | - Janet Pullockaran
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States of America
| | - Patrick M Catalano
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH, United States of America
| | - Marc U Baumann
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Women's Health, Rutgers-New Jersey Medical School, Newark, NJ, United States of America
| | - Stacy Zamudio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, United States of America
| | - Nicholas P Illsley
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, United States of America.
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Michelsen TM, Holme AM, Holm MB, Roland MC, Haugen G, Powell TL, Jansson T, Henriksen T. Uteroplacental Glucose Uptake and Fetal Glucose Consumption: A Quantitative Study in Human Pregnancies. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2019; 104:873-882. [PMID: 30339207 DOI: 10.1210/jc.2018-01154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Maternal glucose levels and body mass index (BMI) are determinants of fetal overgrowth, but their relation to fetal glucose consumption is not well characterized in human pregnancy. OBJECTIVES To quantify uteroplacental glucose uptake and the allocation of glucose between the placenta and fetus and to identify factors that affect fetal glucose consumption. DESIGN Human in vivo study in term pregnancies. SETTING Oslo University Hospital, Norway. PARTICIPANTS One hundred seventy-nine healthy women with elective cesarean section. INTERVENTIONS Uterine and umbilical blood flow was determined using Doppler ultrasonography. Glucose and insulin were measured in the maternal radial artery and uterine vein and the umbilical artery and vein. In a subcohort (n = 33), GLUT1 expression was determined in isolated syncytiotrophoblast basal and microvillous plasma membranes. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Uteroplacental glucose uptake and placental and fetal glucose consumption quantified by the Fick principle. RESULTS Median (Q1, Q3) uteroplacental glucose uptake was 117.1 (59.1, 224.9) μmol⋅min-1, and fetal and placental glucose consumptions were 28.9 (15.4, 41.8) µmol⋅min-1⋅kg fetus-1 and 51.4 (-65.8, 185.4) µmol⋅min-1⋅kg placenta-1, respectively. Fetal glucose consumption correlated with birth weight (ρ: 0.34; P < 0.001) and maternal-fetal glucose gradient (ρ: 0.60; P < 0.001), but not with maternal BMI or uteroplacental glucose uptake. Uteroplacental glucose uptake was correlated to placental glucose consumption (ρ: 0.77; P < 0.001). Fetal and placental glucose consumptions were inversely correlated (ρ: -0.47; P < 0.001), but neither was correlated with placental GLUT1 expression. CONCLUSION These findings suggest that fetal glucose consumption is balanced against the placental needs for glucose and that placental glucose consumption is a key modulator of maternal-fetal glucose transfer in women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Trond M Michelsen
- Department of Obstetrics Rikshospitalet, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- Research Unit, Sørlandet Hospital, Arendal, Norway
| | - Ane M Holme
- Department of Obstetrics Rikshospitalet, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Maia B Holm
- Department of Obstetrics Rikshospitalet, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Marie C Roland
- Department of Obstetrics Rikshospitalet, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- Norwegian Advisory Unit on Women's Health, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Guttorm Haugen
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
- Department of Fetal Medicine, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
| | - Theresa L Powell
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Thomas Jansson
- Division of Reproductive Sciences, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Aurora, Colorado
| | - Tore Henriksen
- Department of Obstetrics Rikshospitalet, Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway
- University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
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Human Genetic Adaptation to High Altitude: Evidence from the Andes. Genes (Basel) 2019; 10:genes10020150. [PMID: 30781443 PMCID: PMC6410003 DOI: 10.3390/genes10020150] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Revised: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 12/31/2022] Open
Abstract
Whether Andean populations are genetically adapted to high altitudes has long been of interest. Initial studies focused on physiological changes in the O₂ transport system that occur with acclimatization in newcomers and their comparison with those of long-resident Andeans. These as well as more recent studies indicate that Andeans have somewhat larger lung volumes, narrower alveolar to arterial O₂ gradients, slightly less hypoxic pulmonary vasoconstrictor response, greater uterine artery blood flow during pregnancy, and increased cardiac O2 utilization, which overall suggests greater efficiency of O₂ transfer and utilization. More recent single nucleotide polymorphism and whole-genome sequencing studies indicate that multiple gene regions have undergone recent positive selection in Andeans. These include genes involved in the regulation of vascular control, metabolic hemostasis, and erythropoiesis. However, fundamental questions remain regarding the functional links between these adaptive genomic signals and the unique physiological attributes of highland Andeans. Well-designed physiological and genome association studies are needed to address such questions. It will be especially important to incorporate the role of epigenetic processes (i.e.; non-sequence-based features of the genome) that are vital for transcriptional responses to hypoxia and are potentially heritable across generations. In short, further exploration of the interaction among genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors in shaping patterns of adaptation to high altitude promises to improve the understanding of the mechanisms underlying human adaptive potential and clarify its implications for human health.
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Kaur H, Wilson RL, Care AS, Muhlhausler BS, Roberts CT, Gatford KL. Validation studies of a fluorescent method to measure placental glucose transport in mice. Placenta 2019; 76:23-29. [PMID: 30803711 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.01.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2018] [Revised: 01/07/2019] [Accepted: 01/20/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Proper placental function is essential for optimal fetal growth in utero. Placental transfer of nutrients to the fetus can be measured using radiolabelled tracers, but non-radioactive methods have potential advantages. This study aimed to develop a fluorescence-based method to measure placental glucose transport in mice. METHODS Time course and localisation of the IRDye 800CW 2-deoxyglucose were recorded (Lumina IVIS Live Imaging System) following tail vein injection into anaesthetised late pregnant mice. Fluorescent signals in placental and fetal tissues were assessed after injecting conscious dams with 10 nmol IRDye 800CW 2-deoxyglucose (3, 30, 60, 120 min) or vehicle. Specificity of dye uptake was determined by comparing uptake of IRDye 800CW conjugated to 2-deoxyglucose or carboxylate, at 2 and 24 h. Finally, we assessed relationships of fetal size and umbilical blood flow velocities with relative dye uptake. RESULTS In late pregnant mice, uterine fluorescent signal localised rapidly over placentas and remained consistent for >1 h. Signal intensity in whole and homogenised tissues increased in fetuses and decreased in placentas after 3 min and stabilised by 30 min post-injection. Relative fetal dye uptake at 2 and 24 h was greater in littermates with the highest compared to lowest placental efficiency; signals were similar for 2-deoxyglucose- or carboxylate-conjugated dyes. Relative fetal dye uptake correlated positively with fetal weight and placental efficiency and negatively with umbilical artery resistance indices. CONCLUSIONS Fetal uptake of IRDye 800CW correlates with markers of placental blood flow and fetal growth, but does not specifically measure placental glucose transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Harleen Kaur
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
| | - Rebecca L Wilson
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
| | - Alison S Care
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
| | - Beverly S Muhlhausler
- Food and Nutrition Research Group, School of Agriculture, Food and Wine, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Healthy Mothers, Babies and Children Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, South Australia, 5001, Australia
| | - Claire T Roberts
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia
| | - Kathryn L Gatford
- Robinson Research Institute, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia; Adelaide Medical School, The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia, 5005, Australia.
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Song H, Telugu BP, Thompson LP. Sexual dimorphism of mitochondrial function in the hypoxic guinea pig placenta. Biol Reprod 2019; 100:208-216. [PMID: 30085007 PMCID: PMC6335207 DOI: 10.1093/biolre/ioy167] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2018] [Revised: 04/16/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental hypoxia can stimulate oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction reducing placental efficiency and inducing fetal growth restriction (FGR). We hypothesized that chronic hypoxia inhibits mitochondrial function in the placenta as an underlying cause of cellular mechanisms contributing to FGR. Pregnant guinea pigs were exposed to either normoxia (NMX) or hypoxia (HPX; 10.5% O2) at 25 day gestation until term (65 day). Guinea pigs were anesthetized, and fetuses and placentas were excised at either mid (40 day) or late gestation (64 day), weighed, and placental tissue stored at -80°C until assayed. Mitochondrial DNA content, protein expression of respiratory Complexes I-V, and nitration and activity rates of Complexes I and IV were measured in NMX and HPX male (N = 6 in each treatment) and female (N = 6 in each treatment) placentas. Mitochondrial density was not altered by HPX in either mid- or late-term placentas. In mid gestation, HPX slightly increased expression of Complexes I-III and V in male placentas only, but had no effect on either Complex I or IV activity rates or nitrotyrosine expression. In late gestation, HPX significantly decreased CI/CIV activity rates and increased CI/CIV nitration in male but not female placentas exhibiting a sexual dimorphism. Complex I-V expression was reduced from mid to late gestation in both male and female placentas regardless of treatment. We conclude that chronic HPX decreases mitochondrial function by inhibiting Complex I/IV activity via increased peroxynitrite in a sex-related manner. Further, there may be a progressive decrease in energy metabolism of placental cell types with gestation that increases the vulnerability of placental function to intrauterine stress.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hong Song
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Bhanu P Telugu
- Animal Biosciences and Biotechnology Laboratory, USDA-ARS, Beltsville, Maryland, USA
- Animal and Avian Science, University of Maryland, College Park, Maryland, USA
| | - Loren P Thompson
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
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Illsley NP, Baumann MU. Human placental glucose transport in fetoplacental growth and metabolism. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2018; 1866:165359. [PMID: 30593896 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2018.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 63] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2018] [Revised: 11/13/2018] [Accepted: 12/06/2018] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
While efficient glucose transport is essential for all cells, in the case of the human placenta, glucose transport requirements are two-fold; provision of glucose for the growing fetus in addition to the supply of glucose required the changing metabolic needs of the placenta itself. The rapidly evolving environment of placental cells over gestation has significant consequences for the development of glucose transport systems. The two-fold transport requirement of the placenta means also that changes in expression will have effects not only for the placenta but also for fetal growth and metabolism. This review will examine the localization, function and evolution of placental glucose transport systems as they are altered with fetal development and the transport and metabolic changes observed in pregnancy pathologies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas P Illsley
- Center for Abnormal Placentation, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA.
| | - Marc U Baumann
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Inselspital, Bern University Hospital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
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Euser AG, Hammes A, Ahrendsen JT, Neshek B, Weitzenkamp DA, Gutierrez J, Koivunen P, Julian CG, Moore LG. Gestational Diabetes Prevalence at Moderate and High Altitude. High Alt Med Biol 2018; 19:367-372. [PMID: 30281336 DOI: 10.1089/ham.2018.0012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND High-altitude (HA) pregnancies have been associated with decreased glucose levels and increased insulin sensitivity versus sea level. Our objective was to determine if the prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and the impact of demographic characteristics on GDM diagnosis differed at moderate altitude (MA) versus HA. METHODS Using a retrospective cohort design, we compared women living at HA (>8250 ft) and MA (4000-7000 ft) during pregnancy. Exclusion criteria were as follows: multiple gestation, preexisting diabetes, unavailable GDM results, or relocation from a different altitude during pregnancy. GDM diagnosis was determined using Carpenter and Coustan criteria. Data were compared by t-test (continuous variables) or chi-squared tests (categorical variables). Univariate, multivariate, and stepwise regression models were used to assess the impact of various factors on GDM prevalence. RESULTS There was no difference in GDM prevalence between altitudes in these populations; the relationship between altitude and GDM was nonsignificant in all regression analyses. At MA, maternal age, Hispanic ethnicity, body mass index (BMI), and gestational age (GA) at testing increased GDM incidence in univariate analyses. At HA, maternal age, Hispanic ethnicity, and multiparity increased GDM incidence in univariate analyses. CONCLUSION While GDM prevalence did not differ between MA and HA, the impact of maternal demographic characteristics on GDM risk varied by altitude group. Higher BMI and greater GA at testing increased the incidence of GDM at MA, but not at HA. Multiparity had an effect at HA, but not MA. These differences may represent subtle differences in glucose metabolism at HA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna G Euser
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
| | - Andrew Hammes
- 2 Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado , Aurora, Colorado
| | - Jared T Ahrendsen
- 3 University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
| | - Barbara Neshek
- 3 University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
| | - David A Weitzenkamp
- 2 Department of Biostatistics and Informatics, University of Colorado , Aurora, Colorado
| | | | - Peppi Koivunen
- 5 Biocenter Oulu, Faculty of Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine, Oulu Center for Cell-Matrix Research, University of Oulu , Oulu, Finland
| | - Colleen G Julian
- 6 Department of Medicine, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
| | - Lorna G Moore
- 1 Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Colorado Denver School of Medicine , Aurora, Colorado
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Basak S, Vilasagaram S, Naidu K, Duttaroy AK. Insulin-dependent, glucose transporter 1 mediated glucose uptake and tube formation in the human placental first trimester trophoblast cells. Mol Cell Biochem 2018; 451:91-106. [DOI: 10.1007/s11010-018-3396-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2018] [Accepted: 06/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
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García-Honduvilla N, Ortega MA, Asúnsolo Á, Álvarez-Rocha MJ, Romero B, De León-Luis J, Álvarez-Mon M, Buján J. Placentas from women with pregnancy-associated venous insufficiency show villi damage with evidence of hypoxic cellular stress. Hum Pathol 2018; 77:45-53. [PMID: 29626597 DOI: 10.1016/j.humpath.2018.03.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2017] [Revised: 03/08/2018] [Accepted: 03/15/2018] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
Lower extremity venous insufficiency (VI) is a complication of pregnancy. The potential association of this venous disease with structural damage of the placenta has not been described. We analyzed the pattern of histopathologic lesions and the gene and protein expression of HIF1-α and apoptosis regulatory proteins. A prospective study was carried out on placenta samples from 43 women with pregnancy-associated VI and 24 age-matched pregnant healthy controls (HCs). Women with VI showed a significant increase in the number of villi (150.77 ± 42.55 VI versus 122.13 ± 27.74 HC) and in syncytial knots compared with those found in the placentas from HCs (67.15 ± 31.08 VI versus 42.49 ± 17.36 HC), and an increase in the number of bridges (32.40 ± 2.67 VI versus 22.73 ± 2.37 HC; P < .05). The mean number of syncytial nodes per villus is 1.37 ± 0.90 in the VI group and 0.49 ± 0.58 in the HC group (P < .001). Significant increases in the expression of Bax and caspase-3 and caspase-9 in the placentas from women with VI were observed compared with those found in HC. The expression of HIF-1α at both the messenger RNA and protein levels was also significantly increased in the placentas from women with VI. Our study demonstrates that placentas from women with pregnancy-associated VI show structural remodeling, with an increase in the number of villi and syncytial knots and enhanced apoptotic cellular death. Interestingly, this placental damage is associated with an increased expression of hypoxia-triggered molecular pathways, such as HIF-1α.
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Affiliation(s)
- Natalio García-Honduvilla
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Miguel A Ortega
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Ángel Asúnsolo
- Department of Surgery, Medical and Social Sciences, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - María J Álvarez-Rocha
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Beatriz Romero
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain
| | - Juan De León-Luis
- Service of Gynecology and Obstetrics, Section of Fetal Maternal Medicine, University Hospital Gregorio Marañón, Madrid, Spain
| | - Melchor Álvarez-Mon
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain; Immune System Diseases-Rheumatology and Oncology Service, University Hospital Príncipe de Asturias, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain
| | - Julia Buján
- Department of Medicine and Medical Specialties, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, Networking Biomedical Research Center on Bioengineering, Biomaterials and Nanomedicine (CIBER-BBN), Ramón y Cajal Institute of Sanitary Research (IRYCIS), Madrid, Spain.
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DeMeritt J, Wajswol E, Wattamwar A, Litkouhi B, Vaidya A, Sbarra M, Zamudio S, Pozzi RA, Canning A, Woytanowski J, Al-Khan A. Serial Uterine Artery Embolization for the Treatment of Placenta Percreta in the First Trimester: A Case Report. Cardiovasc Intervent Radiol 2018; 41:1280-1284. [PMID: 29556708 DOI: 10.1007/s00270-018-1929-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/25/2017] [Accepted: 03/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
Two patients with placenta percreta underwent uterine artery embolization (UAE) for abnormally invasive placenta (AIP) in the first trimester. Patient 1 had a 9-week cervical ectopic, while Patient 2 had a 9-week cesarean scar pregnancy. Elective termination of pregnancy was performed in both patients. UAE was performed with tris-acryl gelatin microspheres as well as gelfoam until stasis and was repeated in cases of revascularization. Both patients were followed with US/MRI/MRA scans and β-hCG levels. Revascularization occurred in both patients following UAE, requiring multiple embolizations to achieve complete placental involution. Serial bland UAE may be an effective technique in the treatment of first-trimester AIP, with the distinct advantage of maintaining a patient's fertility. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE Level IV.
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Affiliation(s)
- John DeMeritt
- Department of Radiology, Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Avenue, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA.
| | | | - Anoop Wattamwar
- Department of Radiology, Hackensack University Medical Center, 30 Prospect Avenue, Hackensack, NJ, 07601, USA
| | - Babak Litkouhi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Ami Vaidya
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Michael Sbarra
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Stacy Zamudio
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Rocio Acera Pozzi
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
| | - Andrew Canning
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Nebraska, Omaha, NE, USA
| | - John Woytanowski
- Department of Internal Medicine, Drexel University College of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Abdulla Al-Khan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hackensack University Medical Center, Hackensack, NJ, USA
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Nye GA, Ingram E, Johnstone ED, Jensen OE, Schneider H, Lewis RM, Chernyavsky IL, Brownbill P. Human placental oxygenation in late gestation: experimental and theoretical approaches. J Physiol 2018; 596:5523-5534. [PMID: 29377190 PMCID: PMC6265570 DOI: 10.1113/jp275633] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 01/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
The placenta is crucial for life. It is an ephemeral but complex organ acting as the barrier interface between maternal and fetal circulations, providing exchange of gases, nutrients, hormones, waste products and immunoglobulins. Many gaps exist in our understanding of the detailed placental structure and function, particularly in relation to oxygen handling and transfer in healthy and pathological states in utero. Measurements to understand oxygen transfer in vivo in the human are limited, with no general agreement on the most appropriate methods. An invasive method for measuring partial pressure of oxygen in the intervillous space through needle electrode insertion at the time of Caesarean sections has been reported. This allows for direct measurements in vivo whilst maintaining near normal placental conditions; however, there are practical and ethical implications in using this method for determination of placental oxygenation. Furthermore, oxygen levels are likely to be highly heterogeneous within the placenta. Emerging non-invasive techniques, such as MRI, and ex vivo research are capable of enhancing and improving current imaging methodology for placental villous structure and increase the precision of oxygen measurement within placental compartments. These techniques, in combination with mathematical modelling, have stimulated novel cross-disciplinary approaches that could advance our understanding of placental oxygenation and its metabolism in normal and pathological pregnancies, improving clinical treatment options and ultimately outcomes for the patient.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gareth A Nye
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.,St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Emma Ingram
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.,St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Edward D Johnstone
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.,St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
| | - Oliver E Jensen
- School of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Henning Schneider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital, University of Bern, CH-3010, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Rohan M Lewis
- Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, SO16 6YD, UK
| | - Igor L Chernyavsky
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.,St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.,School of Mathematics, University of Manchester, Manchester, M13 9PL, UK
| | - Paul Brownbill
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.,St Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK
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Abstract
The mammalian placenta shows an extraordinary degree of variation in gross and fine structure, but this has been difficult to interpret in physiological terms. Transcriptomics offers a path to understanding how structure relates to function. This essay examines how studies of gene transcription can inform us about placental evolution in eutherian and marsupial mammals and more broadly about convergent evolution of viviparity and placentation in vertebrates. Thus far, the focus has been on the chorioallantoic placenta of eutherians at term, the reproductive strategies of eutherians and marsupials, and the decidual response of the uterus at implantation. Future work should address gene expression during early stages of placental development and endeavor to cover all major groups of mammals. Comparative studies across oviparous and viviparous vertebrates have centered on the chorioallantoic membrane and yolk sac. They point to the possibility of defining a set of genes that can be recruited to support commonalities in reproductive strategies. Further advances can be anticipated from single-cell transcriptomics if those techniques are applied to a range of placental structures and in species other than humans and mice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony M Carter
- Cardiovascular and Renal Research, Institute of Molecular Medicine, University of Southern Denmark, J. B. Winsloews Vej 21, DK-5000 Odense, Denmark
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48
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Winterhager E, Gellhaus A. Transplacental Nutrient Transport Mechanisms of Intrauterine Growth Restriction in Rodent Models and Humans. Front Physiol 2017; 8:951. [PMID: 29230179 PMCID: PMC5711821 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2017.00951] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2017] [Accepted: 11/08/2017] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Although the causes of intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) have been intensively investigated, important information is still lacking about the role of the placenta as a link from adverse maternal environment to adverse pregnancy outcomes of IUGR and preterm birth. IUGR is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular, metabolic, and neurological diseases later in life. Determination of the most important pathways that regulate transplacental transport systems is necessary for identifying marker genes as diagnostic tools and for developing drugs that target the molecular pathways. Besides oxygen, the main nutrients required for appropriate fetal development and growth are glucose, amino acids, and fatty acids. Dysfunction in transplacental transport is caused by impairments in both placental morphology and blood flow, as well as by factors such as alterations in the expression of insulin-like growth factors and changes in the mTOR signaling pathway leading to a change in nutrient transport. Animal models are important tools for systematically studying such complex events. Debate centers on whether the rodent placenta is an appropriate tool for investigating the alterations in the human placenta that result in IUGR. This review provides an overview of the alterations in expression and activity of nutrient transporters and alterations in signaling associated with IUGR and compares these findings in rodents and humans. In general, the data obtained by studies of the various types of rodent and human nutrient transporters are similar. However, direct comparison is complicated by the fact that the results of such studies are controversial even within the same species, making the interpretation of the results challenging. This difficulty could be due to the absence of guidelines of the experimental design and, especially in humans, the use of trophoblast cell culture studies instead of clinical trials. Nonetheless, developing new therapy concepts for IUGR will require the use of animal models for gathering robust data about mechanisms leading to IUGR and for testing the effectiveness and safety of the intervention among pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elke Winterhager
- Electron Microscopy Unit, Imaging Center Essen, University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Alexandra Gellhaus
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
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49
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Albers RE, Waker CA, Keoni C, Kaufman MR, Bottomley MA, Min S, Natale DR, Brown TL. Gestational differences in murine placenta: Glycolytic metabolism and pregnancy parameters. Theriogenology 2017; 107:115-126. [PMID: 29145065 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2017.10.049] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2017] [Revised: 10/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/31/2017] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The placenta is a complex and essential organ composed largely of fetal-derived cells, including several different trophoblast subtypes that work in unison to support nutrient transport to the fetus during pregnancy. Abnormal placental development can lead to pregnancy-associated disorders that often involve metabolic dysfunction. The scope of dysregulated metabolism during placental development may not be fully representative of the in vivo state in defined culture systems, such as cell lines or isolated primary cells. Thus, assessing metabolic function in intact placental tissue would provide a better assessment of placental metabolism. In this study, we describe a methodology for assaying glycolytic function in structurally-intact mouse placental tissue, ex vivo, without culturing or tissue dissociation, that more closely resembles the in vivo state. Additionally, we present data highlighting sex-dependent differences of two mouse strains (C57BL/6 and ICR) in the pre-hypertrophic (E14.5) and hypertrophic (E18.5) placenta. These data establish a foundation for investigation of metabolism throughout gestation and provides a comprehensive assessment of glycolytic function during placental development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renee E Albers
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, United States
| | - Christopher A Waker
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, United States
| | - Chanel Keoni
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, United States
| | - Melissa R Kaufman
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, United States
| | - Michael A Bottomley
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, Wright State University, Dayton, OH 45435, United States
| | - Sarah Min
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States
| | - David R Natale
- Department of Reproductive Medicine, University of California San Diego, La Jolla, CA 92093, United States
| | - Thomas L Brown
- Department of Neuroscience, Cell Biology, and Physiology, Wright State University Boonshoft School of Medicine, Dayton, OH 45435, United States.
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50
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Transplacental nutrient transfer in the human in vivo determined by 4 vessel sampling. Placenta 2017; 59 Suppl 1:S26-S31. [DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2017.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2016] [Revised: 03/12/2017] [Accepted: 03/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
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