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Mižíková I, Thébaud B. Perinatal origins of bronchopulmonary dysplasia-deciphering normal and impaired lung development cell by cell. Mol Cell Pediatr 2023; 10:4. [PMID: 37072570 PMCID: PMC10113423 DOI: 10.1186/s40348-023-00158-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2022] [Accepted: 03/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a multifactorial disease occurring as a consequence of premature birth, as well as antenatal and postnatal injury to the developing lung. BPD morbidity and severity depend on a complex interplay between prenatal and postnatal inflammation, mechanical ventilation, and oxygen therapy as well as associated prematurity-related complications. These initial hits result in ill-explored aberrant immune and reparative response, activation of pro-fibrotic and anti-angiogenic factors, which further perpetuate the injury. Histologically, the disease presents primarily by impaired lung development and an arrest in lung microvascular maturation. Consequently, BPD leads to respiratory complications beyond the neonatal period and may result in premature aging of the lung. While the numerous prenatal and postnatal stimuli contributing to BPD pathogenesis are relatively well known, the specific cell populations driving the injury, as well as underlying mechanisms are still not well understood. Recently, an effort to gain a more detailed insight into the cellular composition of the developing lung and its progenitor populations has unfold. Here, we provide an overview of the current knowledge regarding perinatal origin of BPD and discuss underlying mechanisms, as well as novel approaches to study the perturbed lung development.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Mižíková
- Experimental Pulmonology, Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.
| | - B Thébaud
- Sinclair Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Cellular and Molecular Medicine, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
- Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO), CHEO Research Institute, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Ramírez V, Bautista RJ, Frausto-González O, Rodríguez-Peña N, Betancourt ET, Bautista CJ. Developmental Programming in Animal Models: Critical Evidence of Current Environmental Negative Changes. Reprod Sci 2023; 30:442-63. [PMID: 35697921 DOI: 10.1007/s43032-022-00999-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) approach answers questions surrounding the early events suffered by the mother during reproductive stages that can either partially or permanently influence the developmental programming of children, predisposing them to be either healthy or exhibit negative health outcomes in adulthood. Globally, vulnerable populations tend to present high obesity rates, including among school-age children and women of reproductive age. In addition, adults suffer from high rates of diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular, and other metabolic diseases. The increase in metabolic outcomes has been associated with the combination of maternal womb conditions and adult lifestyle-related factors such as malnutrition and obesity, smoking habits, and alcoholism. However, to date, "new environmental changes" have recently been considered negative factors of development, such as maternal sedentary lifestyle, lack of maternal attachment during lactation, overcrowding, smog, overurbanization, industrialization, noise pollution, and psychosocial stress experienced during the current SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. Therefore, it is important to recognize how all these factors impact offspring development during pregnancy and lactation, a period in which the subject cannot protect itself from these mechanisms. This review aims to introduce the importance of studying DOHaD, discuss classical programming studies, and address the importance of studying new emerging programming mechanisms, known as actual lifestyle factors, during pregnancy and lactation.
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Kuiper-Makris C, Selle J, Nüsken E, Dötsch J, Alejandre Alcazar MA. Perinatal Nutritional and Metabolic Pathways: Early Origins of Chronic Lung Diseases. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:667315. [PMID: 34211985 PMCID: PMC8239134 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.667315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/12/2021] [Accepted: 05/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Lung development is not completed at birth, but expands beyond infancy, rendering the lung highly susceptible to injury. Exposure to various influences during a critical window of organ growth can interfere with the finely-tuned process of development and induce pathological processes with aberrant alveolarization and long-term structural and functional sequelae. This concept of developmental origins of chronic disease has been coined as perinatal programming. Some adverse perinatal factors, including prematurity along with respiratory support, are well-recognized to induce bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a neonatal chronic lung disease that is characterized by arrest of alveolar and microvascular formation as well as lung matrix remodeling. While the pathogenesis of various experimental models focus on oxygen toxicity, mechanical ventilation and inflammation, the role of nutrition before and after birth remain poorly investigated. There is accumulating clinical and experimental evidence that intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) as a consequence of limited nutritive supply due to placental insufficiency or maternal malnutrition is a major risk factor for BPD and impaired lung function later in life. In contrast, a surplus of nutrition with perinatal maternal obesity, accelerated postnatal weight gain and early childhood obesity is associated with wheezing and adverse clinical course of chronic lung diseases, such as asthma. While the link between perinatal nutrition and lung health has been described, the underlying mechanisms remain poorly understood. There are initial data showing that inflammatory and nutrient sensing processes are involved in programming of alveolarization, pulmonary angiogenesis, and composition of extracellular matrix. Here, we provide a comprehensive overview of the current knowledge regarding the impact of perinatal metabolism and nutrition on the lung and beyond the cardiopulmonary system as well as possible mechanisms determining the individual susceptibility to CLD early in life. We aim to emphasize the importance of unraveling the mechanisms of perinatal metabolic programming to develop novel preventive and therapeutic avenues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Celien Kuiper-Makris
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Translational Experimental Pediatrics-Experimental Pulmonology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jaco Selle
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Translational Experimental Pediatrics-Experimental Pulmonology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Eva Nüsken
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Jörg Dötsch
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Miguel A Alejandre Alcazar
- Department of Pediatric and Adolescent Medicine, Translational Experimental Pediatrics-Experimental Pulmonology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Center for Molecular Medicine Cologne (CMMC), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Excellence Cluster on Stress Responses in Aging-associated Diseases (CECAD), Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Cologne, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany.,Member of the German Centre for Lung Research (DZL), Institute for Lung Health, University of Giessen and Marburg Lung Centre (UGMLC), Gießen, Germany
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4
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Rosales-Nieto CA, Ehrhardt R, Mantey A, Makela B, Veiga-Lopez A. Preconceptional diet manipulation and fetus number can influence placenta endocrine function in sheep. Domest Anim Endocrinol 2021; 74:106577. [PMID: 33160155 PMCID: PMC7719092 DOI: 10.1016/j.domaniend.2020.106577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 09/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/30/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Changes in maternal nutrition during pregnancy can result in profound effects on placental function and fetal development. Although the preconceptional period holds the potential to reprogram embryonic and placental development, little is known regarding the effects of premating nutritional manipulation on placental function and fetal and postnatal offspring growth. To test this, Polypay-Dorset sheep (n = 99) were assigned to 1 of 3 nutritional treatments (n = 33/treatment) receiving 50% (UN: undernutrition), 100% (C: control), or 200% (ON: overnutrition) of maintenance energy requirements for 21 d before mating during April-May (increasing photoperiod). Thereafter, diets were the same across groups. We evaluated maternal reproductive variables and maternal and offspring weight and body mass index through weaning. Maternal plasma was collected through pregnancy until postnatal day 1 to assay pregnancy-associated glycoproteins (PAGs) and progesterone. Fertility rate was similar among treatments, but ON females had a higher reproductive rate (UN: 82%; C: 100%, ON: 145%). When correcting by total birth weight, twin pregnancies had lower PAGs and progesterone versus singleton pregnancies (P < 0.001). At birth, UN lambs were heavier than C lambs regardless of birth type (P < 0.01). Growth velocity, daily gain, and weaning weight were similar, but UN and ON females grew faster and were heavier at weaning versus C females. We demonstrated that a 3-wk preconceptional maternal undernutrition or overnutrition, when correcting by total birth weight, results in lower endocrine capacity in twin pregnancies. Preconceptional maternal undernutrition and overnutrition increased postnatal female lamb growth, suggestive of reprogramming of pathways regulating growth before conception. This highlights how preconceptional nutrition can result in marked sex-specific differences.
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Affiliation(s)
- C A Rosales-Nieto
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - R Ehrhardt
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Department of Large Animal Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - A Mantey
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - B Makela
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA
| | - A Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Animal Science, College of Agriculture and Natural Resources, Michigan State University, East Lansing, MI 48824, USA; Department of Pathology, College of Medicine, University of Illinois at Chicago, Chicago, IL 60612, USA.
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Miller E, Huber L, Levesque C, de Lange C. Parity and dietary energy allowance during gestation influence piglet energy status and serum insulin-like growth factor 1 at birth. Can J Anim Sci 2020. [DOI: 10.1139/cjas-2019-0037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Over- or under-supplying energy by 15% to gestating sows had minimum consequences for piglet chemical body composition or energy storage (liver and muscle glycogen) at birth, when estimated amino acid requirements were met. Providing gestating sows with energy 15% below versus 15% above requirements increased piglet serum insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) concentrations at birth (P < 0.05). Piglets from first versus second parity sows had lower serum IGF-1 but greater liver glycogen and body fat. Precisely matching the estimated energy and nutrient requirements throughout gestation and across parities likely improves piglet quality; over-supplying energy appears most detrimental for piglet IGF-1 serum concentrations at birth.
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Affiliation(s)
- E.G. Miller
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - L. Huber
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
| | - C.L. Levesque
- Department of Animal Science, South Dakota State University, Brookings, SD 57006, USA
| | - C.F.M. de Lange
- Department of Animal Biosciences, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada
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Darby JRT, Varcoe TJ, Orgeig S, Morrison JL. Cardiorespiratory consequences of intrauterine growth restriction: Influence of timing, severity and duration of hypoxaemia. Theriogenology 2020; 150:84-95. [PMID: 32088029 DOI: 10.1016/j.theriogenology.2020.01.080] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/31/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
At birth, weight of the neonate is used as a marker of the 9-month journey as a fetus. Those neonates born less than the 10th centile for their gestational age are at risk of being intrauterine growth restricted. However, this depends on their genetic potential for growth and the intrauterine environment in which they grew. Alterations in the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the fetus will decrease fetal growth, but these alterations occur due to a range of causes that are maternal, placental or fetal in nature. Consequently, IUGR neonates are a heterogeneous population. For this reason, it is likely that these neonates will respond differently to interventions compared not only to normally grown fetuses, but also to other neonates that are IUGR but have travelled a different path to get there. Thus, a range of models of IUGR should be studied to determine the effects of IUGR on the development and function of the heart and lung and subsequently the impact of interventions to improve development of these organs. Here we focus on a range of models of IUGR caused by manipulation of the maternal, placental or fetal environment on cardiorespiratory outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jack R T Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Australia; School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Tamara J Varcoe
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Australia; School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Sandra Orgeig
- School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia
| | - Janna L Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Australia; School of Pharmacy and Medical Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, Australia.
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7
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Wallace JM. Competition for nutrients in pregnant adolescents: consequences for maternal, conceptus and offspring endocrine systems. J Endocrinol 2019; 242:T1-T19. [PMID: 30615597 DOI: 10.1530/joe-18-0670] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2019] [Accepted: 01/07/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
The competition for nutrients that arises when pregnancy coincides with continuing or incomplete growth in young adolescent girls increases the risk of preterm delivery and low birthweight with negative after-effects for mother and child extending beyond the perinatal period. Sheep paradigms involving nutritional management of weight and adiposity in young, biologically immature adolescents have allowed the consequences of differential maternal growth status to be explored. Although nutrient reserves at conception play a modest role, it is the dietary manipulation of the maternal growth trajectory thereafter which has the most negative impact on pregnancy outcome. Overnourishing adolescents to promote rapid maternal growth is particularly detrimental as placental growth, uteroplacental blood flows and fetal nutrient delivery are perturbed leading to a high incidence of fetal growth restriction and premature delivery of low birthweight lambs, whereas in undernourished adolescents further maternal growth is prevented, and depletion of the maternal body results in a small reduction in birthweight independent of placental size. Maternal and placental endocrine systems are differentially altered in both paradigms with downstream effects on fetal endocrine systems, organ development and body composition. Approaches to reverse these effects have been explored, predominantly targeting placental growth or function. After birth, growth-restricted offspring born to overnourished adolescents and fed to appetite have an altered metabolic phenotype which persists into adulthood, whereas offspring of undernourished adolescents are largely unaffected. This body of work using ovine paradigms has public health implications for nutritional advice offered to young adolescents before and during pregnancy, and their offspring thereafter.
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Fleiss B, Wong F, Brownfoot F, Shearer IK, Baud O, Walker DW, Gressens P, Tolcos M. Knowledge Gaps and Emerging Research Areas in Intrauterine Growth Restriction-Associated Brain Injury. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2019; 10:188. [PMID: 30984110 PMCID: PMC6449431 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2019.00188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2018] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a complex global healthcare issue. Concerted research and clinical efforts have improved our knowledge of the neurodevelopmental sequelae of IUGR which has raised the profile of this complex problem. Nevertheless, there is still a lack of therapies to prevent the substantial rates of fetal demise or the constellation of permanent neurological deficits that arise from IUGR. The purpose of this article is to highlight the clinical and translational gaps in our knowledge that hamper our collective efforts to improve the neurological sequelae of IUGR. Also, we draw attention to cutting-edge tools and techniques that can provide novel insights into this disorder, and technologies that offer the potential for better drug design and delivery. We cover topics including: how we can improve our use of crib-side monitoring options, what we still need to know about inflammation in IUGR, the necessity for more human post-mortem studies, lessons from improved integrated histology-imaging analyses regarding the cell-specific nature of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) signals, options to improve risk stratification with genomic analysis, and treatments mediated by nanoparticle delivery which are designed to modify specific cell functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bobbi Fleiss
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Bobbi Fleiss
| | - Flora Wong
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Department of Paediatrics, Monash University, Clayton, VIC, Australia
- Monash Newborn, Monash Children's Hospital, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Fiona Brownfoot
- Translational Obstetrics Group, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Mercy Hospital for Women, University of Melbourne, Heidelberg, VIC, Australia
| | - Isabelle K. Shearer
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Olivier Baud
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Division of Neonatal Intensive Care, University Hospitals of Geneva, Children's Hospital, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - David W. Walker
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
| | - Pierre Gressens
- NeuroDiderot, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France
- Centre for the Developing Brain, School of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, St Thomas' Hospital, London, United Kingdom
- PremUP, Paris, France
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT University, Bundoora, VIC, Australia
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Salati JA, Roberts VHJ, Schabel MC, Lo JO, Kroenke CD, Lewandowski KS, Lindner JR, Grove KL, Frias AE. Maternal high-fat diet reversal improves placental hemodynamics in a nonhuman primate model of diet-induced obesity. Int J Obes (Lond) 2018; 43:906-916. [PMID: 30006583 PMCID: PMC6330251 DOI: 10.1038/s41366-018-0145-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2018] [Revised: 05/16/2018] [Accepted: 05/27/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND In a Japanese macaque model of diet-induced obesity, we have previously demonstrated that consumption of a high-fat, "Western-style" diet (WSD) is associated with placental dysfunction and adverse pregnancy outcomes, independent of an obese maternal phenotype. Specifically, we have reported decreased uterine placental blood flow and increased inflammation with maternal WSD consumption. We also previously investigated the use of a promising therapeutic intervention that mitigated the adverse placental effects of a WSD but had unexpected detrimental effects on fetal pancreatic development. Thus, the objective of the current study was to determine whether simple preconception diet reversal (REV) would improve placental function. METHODS Female Japanese macaques were divided into three groups: REV animals (n = 5) were switched from a chronic WSD (36% fat) to a low fat, CON diet (14% fat) prior to conception and throughout pregnancy. The CON (n = 6) and WSD (n = 6) cohorts were maintained on their respective diets throughout pregnancy. Maternal body weight and composition were regularly assessed and advanced noninvasive imaging was performed at midgestation (gestational day 90, G90, or 0.5 of gestation, where full term is G175), and G129, 1 day prior to C-section delivery at G130 (0.75 of gestation). Imaging studies comprised Doppler ultrasound (US), contrast-enhanced US, and dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging to assess uteroplacental hemodynamics and maternal-side placental perfusion. RESULTS Dietary intervention resulted in significant maternal weight loss prior to pregnancy, and improved lean to fat mass ratio. By advanced imaging we demonstrated that a chronic WSD led to decreased blood flow velocity in the intervillous space, delayed blood flow transfer through the maternal spiral arteries, and reduced total placental blood flow compared to CON fed animals. Dietary reversal ameliorated these concerning derangements, restoring these hemodynamic parameters to CON levels. CONCLUSIONS Preconception dietary modification has beneficial effects on the maternal metabolic phenotype, and results in improved placental hemodynamics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Salati
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 S W Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Victoria H J Roberts
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA.
| | - Matthias C Schabel
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 S W Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.,Utah Center for Advanced Imaging Research, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT, 84112, USA
| | - Jamie O Lo
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 S W Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA
| | - Christopher D Kroenke
- Advanced Imaging Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 S W Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.,Division of Neuroscience, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, Beaverton, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Katherine S Lewandowski
- Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Jonathan R Lindner
- Knight Cardiovascular Institute, Oregon Health & Science University, 3303 S W Bond Ave., Portland, OR, 97239, USA.,Division of Cardiometabolic Health, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
| | - Kevin L Grove
- Novo Nordisk Research Center, 530 Fairview Ave N #5000, Seattle, WA, 98109, USA
| | - Antonio E Frias
- Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Oregon Health & Science University, 3181 S W Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239, USA.,Division of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, Oregon National Primate Research Center, Oregon Health & Science University, 505 NW 185th Ave, Beaverton, OR, 97006, USA
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10
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Wallace JM, Milne JS, Aitken RP, Horgan GW, Adam CL. Ovine prenatal growth restriction impacts glucose metabolism and body composition throughout life in both sexes. Reproduction 2018; 156:103-119. [PMID: 29789442 DOI: 10.1530/rep-18-0048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/24/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Low birthweight is a risk factor for later adverse health. Here the impact of placentally mediated prenatal growth restriction followed by postnatal nutrient abundance on growth, glucose metabolism and body composition was assessed in both sexes at key stages from birth to mid-adult life. Singleton-bearing adolescent dams were fed control or high nutrient intakes to induce normal or growth-restricted pregnancies respectively. Restricted lambs had ~40% reduced birthweight. Fractional growth rates were higher in restricted lambs of both sexes predominantly during suckling/juvenile phases. Thereafter, rates and patterns of growth differed by sex. Absolute catch-up was not achieved and restricted offspring had modestly reduced weight and stature at mid-adulthood necropsy (~109 weeks). Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry revealed lower bone mineral density in restricted vs normal lambs at 11, 41, 64 and 107 weeks, with males > females from 41 weeks onwards. Body fat percentage was higher in females vs males throughout, in restricted vs normal lambs at weaning (both sexes) and in restricted vs normal females at mid-adulthood. Insulin secretion after glucose challenge was greater in restricted vs normal of both sexes at 7 weeks and in restricted males at 32 weeks. In both sexes, fasting glucose concentrations were greater in restricted offspring across the life course, while glucose area under the curve after challenge was higher in restricted offspring at 32, 60, 85 and 106 weeks, indicative of persistent glucose intolerance. Therefore, prenatal growth restriction has negative consequences for body composition and metabolism throughout the life course with the effects modulated by sex differences in postnatal growth rates, fat deposition and bone mass accrual.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - John S Milne
- Rowett InstituteUniversity of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | | | | | - Clare L Adam
- Rowett InstituteUniversity of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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11
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Desforges M, Rogue A, Pearson N, Rossi C, Olearo E, Forster R, Lees M, Sebire NJ, Greenwood SL, Sibley CP, David AL, Brownbill P. In Vitro Human Placental Studies to Support Adenovirus-Mediated VEGF-D ΔNΔC Maternal Gene Therapy for the Treatment of Severe Early-Onset Fetal Growth Restriction. HUM GENE THER CL DEV 2018; 29:10-23. [PMID: 29228803 DOI: 10.1089/humc.2017.090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Severe fetal growth restriction (FGR) affects 1 in 500 pregnancies, is untreatable, and causes serious neonatal morbidity and death. Reduced uterine blood flow (UBF) is one cause. Transduction of uterine arteries in normal and FGR animal models using an adenovirus (Ad) encoding VEGF isoforms increases UBF and improves fetal growth in utero. Understanding potential adverse consequences of this therapy before first-in-woman clinical application is essential. The aims of this study were to determine whether Ad.VEGF-DΔNΔC (1) transfers across the human placental barrier and (2) affects human placental morphology, permeability and primary indicators of placental function, and trophoblast integrity. Villous explants from normal term human placentas were treated with Ad.VEGF-DΔNΔC (5 × 107-10 virus particles [vp]/mL), or virus formulation buffer (FB). Villous structural integrity (hematoxylin and eosin staining) and tissue accessibility (LacZ immunostaining) were determined. Markers of endocrine function (human chorionic gonadotropin [hCG] secretion) and cell death (lactate dehydrogenase [LDH] release) were assayed. Lobules from normal and FGR pregnancies underwent ex vivo dual perfusion with exposure to 5 × 1010 vp/mL Ad.VEGF-DΔNΔC or FB. Perfusion resistance, para-cellular permeability, hCG, alkaline phosphatase, and LDH release were measured. Ad.VEGF-DΔNΔC transfer across the placental barrier was assessed by quantitative polymerase chain reaction in DNA extracted from fetal-side venous perfusate, and by immunohistochemistry in fixed tissue. Villous explant structural integrity and hCG secretion was maintained at all Ad.VEGF-DΔNΔC doses. Ad.VEGF-DΔNΔC perfusion revealed no effect on placental permeability, fetoplacental vascular resistance, hCG secretion, or alkaline phosphatase release, but there was a minor elevation in maternal-side LDH release. Viral vector tissue access in both explant and perfused models was minimal, and the vector was rarely detected in the fetal venous perfusate and at low titer. Ad.VEGF-DΔNΔC did not markedly affect human placental integrity and function in vitro. There was limited tissue access and transfer of vector across the placental barrier. Except for a minor elevation in LDH release, these test data did not reveal any toxic effects of Ad.VEGF-DΔNΔC on the human placenta.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Desforges
- 1 Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester , Manchester, United Kingdom .,2 St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | | | - Nick Pearson
- 4 Pharmaceutical Sciences, pRED, F Hoffmann-La Roche , Basel, Switzerland
| | - Carlo Rossi
- 5 Magnus Growth , London, United Kingdom .,6 Institute for Women's Health, University College London (UCL) , London, United Kingdom
| | - Elena Olearo
- 6 Institute for Women's Health, University College London (UCL) , London, United Kingdom
| | | | - Mark Lees
- 5 Magnus Growth , London, United Kingdom
| | - Neil J Sebire
- 7 Institute of Child Health, University College London (UCL) , London, United Kingdom
| | - Susan L Greenwood
- 1 Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester , Manchester, United Kingdom .,2 St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Colin P Sibley
- 1 Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester , Manchester, United Kingdom .,2 St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Anna L David
- 6 Institute for Women's Health, University College London (UCL) , London, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Brownbill
- 1 Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, University of Manchester , Manchester, United Kingdom .,2 St. Mary's Hospital, Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust , Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
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Carr DJ, Wallace JM, Aitken RP, Milne JS, Martin JF, Zachary IC, Peebles DM, David AL. Peri- and Postnatal Effects of Prenatal Adenoviral VEGF Gene Therapy in Growth-Restricted Sheep. Biol Reprod 2016; 94:142. [PMID: 27103444 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.115.133744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2015] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Uterine artery (UtA) adenovirus (Ad) vector-mediated overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) enhances uterine blood flow in normal sheep pregnancy and increases fetal growth in the overnourished adolescent sheep model of fetal growth restriction (FGR). Herein, we examined its impact on gestation length, neonatal survival, early postnatal growth and metabolism. Singleton-bearing ewes were evenly allocated to receive Ad.VEGF-A165 (5 × 10(10) particles/ml, 10 ml, n = 17) or saline (10 ml, n = 16) injected into each UtA at laparotomy (0.6 gestation). Fetal growth was serially monitored (blind) by ultrasound until delivery. Lambs were weighed and blood was sampled weekly and a glucose tolerance test performed (68-day postnatal age). Hepatic DNA/RNA was extracted at necropsy (83-day postnatal age) to examine methylation status of eight somatotropic axis genes. IGF1 mRNA and protein expression were measured by RT-PCR and radioimmunoassay, respectively. All pregnancies remained viable following Ad.VEGF-A165 treatment. Fetal abdominal circumference and renal volume were greater in the Ad.VEGF-A165 group compared with the saline group at 21/28 days (P ≤ 0.04) postinjection. At delivery, gestation length (P = 0.07), lamb birthweight (P = 0.08), umbilical girth (P = 0.06), and plasma glucose (P = 0.09) tended to be greater in Ad.VEGF-A165-treated lambs. Levels of neonatal intervention required to ensure survival was equivalent between groups. Absolute postnatal growth rate (P = 0.02), insulin area under the curve (P = 0.04) and carcass weight at necropsy (P = 0.04) were increased by Ad.VEGF-A165 treatment. There was no impact on markers of insulin sensitivity or methylation/expression of key genes involved in somatic growth. Ad.VEGF-A165 gene therapy increased fetal growth in a sheep FGR model, and lambs continued to thrive during the neonatal and early postnatal period.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Carr
- Prenatal Cell and Gene Therapy Group, University College London Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Jacqueline M Wallace
- Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - Raymond P Aitken
- Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - John S Milne
- Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
| | - John F Martin
- Centre of Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ian C Zachary
- Centre of Cardiovascular Biology and Medicine, University College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Donald M Peebles
- Prenatal Cell and Gene Therapy Group, University College London Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom National Institute for Health Research University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, Maple House, London, United Kingdom
| | - Anna L David
- Prenatal Cell and Gene Therapy Group, University College London Institute for Women's Health, University College London, London, United Kingdom National Institute for Health Research University College London Hospitals Biomedical Research Centre, Maple House, London, United Kingdom
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Bell AW, Greenwood PL. Prenatal origins of postnatal variation in growth, development and productivity of ruminants. Anim Prod Sci 2016. [DOI: 10.1071/an15408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
This review provides an update on recent research into the effects of maternal nutrition on fetal biology and the growth, development and productivity of progeny in postnatal life of ruminant livestock. Evidence is summarised for effects on postnatal growth and body composition, feed intake and efficiency, carcass characteristics and meat quality, wool production, reproduction and lactation performance. In general, these demonstrated effects are not large in relation to the effects of postnatal nutrition and other environmental influences. The mechanisms underpinning the above production outcomes are briefly discussed in terms of systemic endocrine and metabolic responses, and cellular and molecular effects in skeletal muscle, bone, adipose tissue, wool follicles and brain of fetal, neonatal and adult progeny. Treatments observed to elicit tissue responses include maternal under- and overnutrition at various stages of pregnancy and placental insufficiency caused by increased litter size, chronic maternal heat stress and premating carunclectomy in sheep. The as yet meagre evidence for epigenetic mediation of intergenerational effects in ruminants is considered, as is the likelihood that other, more conventional explanations may suffice in some cases. Finally, evidence is summarised for the proposition that the placenta is not merely a passive conduit for nutrient transfer from dam to fetus, but plays an active role in buffering the effects of variations in maternal nutrition on fetal growth and development, and thence, postnatal outcomes.
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McGovern FM, Campion FP, Sweeney T, Fair S, Lott S, Boland TM. Altering ewe nutrition in late gestation: II. The impact on fetal development and offspring performance1. J Anim Sci 2015; 93:4873-82. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2015-9020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Carr DJ, Milne JS, Aitken RP, Adam CL, Wallace JM. Hepatic IGF1 DNA methylation is influenced by gender but not by intrauterine growth restriction in the young lamb. J Dev Orig Health Dis 2015; 6:558-72. [DOI: 10.1017/s2040174415001415] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and postnatal catch-up growth confer an increased risk of adult-onset disease. Overnourishment of adolescent ewes generates IUGR in ∼50% of lambs, which subsequently exhibit increased fractional growth rates. We investigated putative epigenetic changes underlying this early postnatal phenotype by quantifying gene-specific methylation at cytosine:guanine (CpG) dinucleotides. Hepatic DNA/RNA was extracted from IUGR [eight male (M)/nine female (F)] and normal birth weight (12 M/9 F) lambs. Polymerase chain reaction was performed using primers targeting CpG islands in 10 genes: insulin, growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor (IGF)1, IGF2, H19, insulin receptor, growth hormone receptor, IGF receptors 1 and 2, and the glucocorticoid receptor. Using pyrosequencing, methylation status was determined by quantifying cytosine:thymine ratios at 57 CpG sites. Messenger RNA (mRNA) expression of IGF system genes and plasma IGF1/insulin were determined. DNA methylation was independent of IUGR status but sexual dimorphism in IGF1 methylation was evident (M<F, P=0.008). IGF1 mRNA:18S and plasma IGF1 were M>F (both P<0.001). IGF1 mRNA expression correlated negatively with IGF1 methylation (r=−0.507, P=0.002) and positively with plasma IGF1 (r=0.884, P<0.001). Carcass and empty body weights were greater in males (P=0.002–0.014) and this gender difference in early body conformation was mirrored by sexual dimorphism in hepatic IGF1 DNA methylation, mRNA expression and plasma IGF1 concentrations.
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Spencer RN, Carr DJ, David AL. Treatment of poor placentation and the prevention of associated adverse outcomes--what does the future hold? Prenat Diagn 2014; 34:677-84. [PMID: 24799349 PMCID: PMC4265258 DOI: 10.1002/pd.4401] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2014] [Revised: 04/29/2014] [Accepted: 04/29/2014] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Poor placentation, which manifests as pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction, is a major pregnancy complication. The underlying cause is a deficiency in normal trophoblast invasion of the spiral arteries, associated with placental inflammation, oxidative stress, and an antiangiogenic state. Peripartum therapies, such as prenatal maternal corticosteroids and magnesium sulphate, can prevent some of the adverse neonatal outcomes, but there is currently no treatment for poor placentation itself. Instead, management relies on identifying the consequences of poor placentation in the mother and fetus, with iatrogenic preterm delivery to minimise mortality and morbidity. Several promising therapies are currently under development to treat poor placentation, to improve fetal growth, and to prevent adverse neonatal outcomes. Interventions such as maternal nitric oxide donors, sildenafil citrate, vascular endothelial growth factor gene therapy, hydrogen sulphide donors, and statins address the underlying pathology, while maternal melatonin administration may provide fetal neuroprotection. In the future, these may provide a range of synergistic therapies for pre-eclampsia and fetal growth restriction, depending on the severity and gestation of onset.
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Affiliation(s)
- RN Spencer
- Institute for Women's Health, University College LondonLondon, UK
| | - DJ Carr
- Institute for Women's Health, University College LondonLondon, UK
| | - AL David
- Institute for Women's Health, University College LondonLondon, UK
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Beckett EM, Astapova O, Steckler TL, Veiga-Lopez A, Padmanabhan V. Developmental programing: impact of testosterone on placental differentiation. Reproduction 2014; 148:199-209. [PMID: 24840528 DOI: 10.1530/rep-14-0055] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
Gestational testosterone treatment causes maternal hyperinsulinemia, intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR), low birth weight, and adult reproductive and metabolic dysfunctions. Sheep models of IUGR demonstrate placental insufficiency as an underlying cause of IUGR. Placental compromise is probably the cause of fetal growth retardation in gestational testosterone-treated sheep. This study tested whether testosterone excess compromises placental differentiation by its androgenic action and/or via altered insulin sensitivity. A comparative approach of studying gestational testosterone (aromatizable androgen) against dihydrotestosterone (non-aromatizable androgen) or testosterone plus androgen antagonist, flutamide, was used to determine whether the effects of testosterone on placental differentiation were programed by its androgenic actions. Co-treatment of testosterone with the insulin sensitizer, rosiglitazone, was used to establish whether the effects of gestational testosterone on placentome differentiation involved compromised insulin sensitivity. Parallel cohorts of pregnant females were maintained for lambing and the birth weight of their offspring was recorded. Placental studies were conducted on days 65, 90, or 140 of gestation. Results indicated that i) gestational testosterone treatment advances placental differentiation, evident as early as day 65 of gestation, and culminates in low birth weight, ii) placental advancement is facilitated at least in part by androgenic actions of testosterone and is not a function of disrupted insulin homeostasis, and iii) placental advancement, while helping to increase placental efficiency, was insufficient to prevent IUGR and low-birth-weight female offspring. Findings from this study may be of relevance to women with polycystic ovary syndrome, whose reproductive and metabolic phenotype is captured by the gestational testosterone-treated offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- E M Beckett
- Department of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences ProgramUniversity of Michigan, 300 North Ingalls Building, Room 1138 SW, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5404, USA
| | - O Astapova
- Department of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences ProgramUniversity of Michigan, 300 North Ingalls Building, Room 1138 SW, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5404, USA
| | - T L Steckler
- Department of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences ProgramUniversity of Michigan, 300 North Ingalls Building, Room 1138 SW, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5404, USA
| | - A Veiga-Lopez
- Department of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences ProgramUniversity of Michigan, 300 North Ingalls Building, Room 1138 SW, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5404, USA
| | - V Padmanabhan
- Department of Pediatrics and the Reproductive Sciences ProgramUniversity of Michigan, 300 North Ingalls Building, Room 1138 SW, Ann Arbor, Michigan 48109-5404, USA
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Carr DJ, Wallace JM, Aitken RP, Milne JS, Mehta V, Martin JF, Zachary IC, Peebles DM, David AL. Uteroplacental adenovirus vascular endothelial growth factor gene therapy increases fetal growth velocity in growth-restricted sheep pregnancies. Hum Gene Ther 2014; 25:375-84. [PMID: 24593228 DOI: 10.1089/hum.2013.214] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Fetal growth restriction (FGR) occurs in ∼8% of pregnancies and is a major cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. There is no effective treatment. FGR is characterized by reduced uterine blood flow (UBF). In normal sheep pregnancies, local uterine artery (UtA) adenovirus (Ad)-mediated overexpression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) increases UBF. Herein we evaluated Ad.VEGF therapy in the overnourished adolescent ewe, an experimental paradigm in which reduced UBF from midgestation correlates with reduced lamb birthweight near term. Singleton pregnancies were established using embryo transfer in adolescent ewes subsequently offered a high intake (n=45) or control intake (n=12) of a complete diet to generate FGR or normal fetoplacental growth, respectively. High-intake ewes were randomized midgestation to receive bilateral UtA injections of 5×10¹¹ particles Ad.VEGF-A165 (n=18), control vector Ad.LacZ (n=14), or control saline (n=13). Fetal growth/well-being were evaluated using serial ultrasound. UBF was monitored using indwelling flowprobes until necropsy at 0.9 gestation. Vasorelaxation, neovascularization within the perivascular adventitia, and placental mRNA expression of angiogenic factors/receptors were examined using organ bath analysis, anti-vWF immunohistochemistry, and qRT-PCR, respectively. Ad.VEGF significantly increased ultrasonographic fetal growth velocity at 3-4 weeks postinjection (p=0.016-0.047). At 0.9 gestation fewer fetuses were markedly growth-restricted (birthweight >2SD below contemporaneous control-intake mean) after Ad.VEGF therapy. There was also evidence of mitigated fetal brain sparing (lower biparietal diameter-to-abdominal circumference and brain-to-liver weight ratios). No effects were observed on UBF or neovascularization; however, Ad.VEGF-transduced vessels demonstrated strikingly enhanced vasorelaxation. Placental efficiency (fetal-to-placental weight ratio) and FLT1/KDR mRNA expression were increased in the maternal but not fetal placental compartments, suggesting downstream effects on placental function. Ad.VEGF gene therapy improves fetal growth in a sheep model of FGR, although the precise mechanism of action remains unclear.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Carr
- 1 UCL Institute for Women's Health, University College London , London WC1E 6HX, United Kingdom
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20
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Abstract
AbstractFetal macronutrient requirements for oxidative metabolism and growth are met by placental transport of glucose, amino acids, and, to a lesser extent that varies with species, fatty acids. It is becoming possible to relate the maternal–fetal transport kinetics of these molecules in vivo to the expression and distribution of specific transporters among placental cell types and subcellular membrane fractions. This is most true for glucose transport, although apparent inconsistencies among data on the roles and relative importance of the predominant placenta glucose transporters, GLUT-1 and GLUT-3, remain to be resolved. The quantity of macronutrients transferred to the fetus from the maternal bloodstream is greatly influenced by placental metabolism, which results in net consumption of large amounts of glucose and, to a lesser extent, amino acids. The pattern of fetal nutrient supply is also altered considerably by placental conversion of glucose to lactate and, in some species, fructose, and extensive transamination of amino acids. Placental capacity for transport of glucose and amino acids increases with fetal demand as gestation advances through expansion of the exchange surface area and increased expression of specific transport molecules. In late pregnancy, transport capacity is closely related to placental size and can be modified by maternal nutrition. Preliminary evidence suggests that placental expression and function of specific transport proteins are influenced by extracellular concentrations of nutrients and endocrine factors, but, in general, the humoral regulation of placental capacity for nutrient transport is poorly understood. Consequences of normal and abnormal development of placental transport functions for fetal growth, especially during late gestation, and, possibly, for fetal programming of postnatal disorders, are discussed.
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Abstract
The liver is the largest of the body's organs, with the greatest number of functions, playing a central role in coordinating metabolic homeostasis, nutrient processing and detoxification. The fetal liver forms during early gestation in response to a sequential array of distinct biological events, regulated by intrinsically programmed mechanisms and extracellular signals which instruct hepatic cells to either proliferate, differentiate or undergo apoptosis. A vast number of genes are involved in the initiation and control of liver development, many of which are sensitive to nutritional and hormonal regulation in utero. Moreover, liver mass is influenced by the gestational environment. Therefore, during periods of hepatic cell proliferation and differentiation, the developing fetal liver is sensitive to damage from both internal and external sources including teratogens, infection and nutritional deficiencies. For example, fetuses exposed to decreased materno-fetal nutrition during late gestation have a reduced liver mass, and/or perturbed liver function, which includes increased plasma LDL cholesterol and fibrinogen concentrations. These occur in conjunction with other risk factors present in the early stages of cardiovascular disease i.e. decreased glucose tolerance and insulin insensitivity in later life. Taken together, these findings suggest that liver mass, and later function, are essentially set in utero during fetal development-a process that is ultimately regulated by the intrauterine environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melanie A Hyatt
- Centre for Reproduction and Early Life; Institute of Clinical Research; University of Nottingham UK
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Patil CL, Abrams ET, Steinmetz AR, Young SL. Appetite Sensations and Nausea and Vomiting in Pregnancy: An Overview of the Explanations. Ecol Food Nutr 2012; 51:394-417. [DOI: 10.1080/03670244.2012.696010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
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Verbeek E, Waas JR, Oliver MH, McLeay LM, Ferguson DM, Matthews LR. Motivation to obtain a food reward of pregnant ewes in negative energy balance: behavioural, metabolic and endocrine considerations. Horm Behav 2012; 62:162-72. [PMID: 22789465 DOI: 10.1016/j.yhbeh.2012.06.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2012] [Revised: 06/21/2012] [Accepted: 06/29/2012] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Low food availability often coincides with pregnancy in grazing animals. This study investigated how chronic reductions in food intake affected feeding motivation, and metabolic and endocrine parameters in pregnant sheep, which might be indicative of compromised welfare. Ewes with an initial Body Condition Score of 2.7±0.3 (BCS; 0 indicates emaciation and 5 obesity) were fed to attain low (LBC 2.0±0.0,), medium (MBC 2.9±0.1) or high BCS (HBC 3.7±0.1) in the first trimester of pregnancy. A feeding motivation test in which sheep were required to walk a set distance for a palatable food reward was conducted in the second trimester. LBC and MBC ewes consumed more rewards (P=0.001) and displayed a higher expenditure (P=0.02) than HBC ewes, LBC ewes also tended to consume more rewards than MBC ewes (P=0.09). Plasma leptin and glucose concentrations were inversely correlated to expenditure (both P<0.05) and appear to be associated with hunger in sheep. LBC ewes were in negative energy balance, with lower muscle dimensions, plasma glucose, leptin, insulin, cortisol, and insulin-like growth factor-1 concentrations and higher free fatty acids concentrations compared to HBC ewes; metabolic and endocrine parameters of the MBC ewes were intermediate. The high feeding motivation and negative energy balance of low BCS ewes suggested an increased risk of compromised welfare. Imposing even a small cost on a food reward reduced motivation substantially in high BCS ewes (despite high intake when food was freely available). Assessment of a willingness to work for rewards, combined with measures of key metabolic and endocrine parameters, may provide sensitive barometers of welfare in energetically-taxed animals.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Verbeek
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Waikato, Hillcrest Road, Private Bag 3105, Hamilton 3240, New Zealand.
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Peel RK, Eckerle GJ, Anthony RV. Effects of overfeeding naturally-mated adolescent ewes on maternal, fetal, and postnatal lamb growth. J Anim Sci 2012; 90:3698-708. [PMID: 22665677 DOI: 10.2527/jas.2012-5140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of overfeeding naturally-mated adolescent ewes (Ovis aries) on maternal, fetal, and postnatal lamb growth, hormone concentrations, and lamb carcass characteristics. Two experiments were conducted in which singleton-bearing adolescent ewes were fed a diet containing 2.72 Mcal/kg ME at a rate which met NRC gestational age requirements (MN; n = 10 in Exp. 1, n = 7 in Exp. 2) or were fed the same diet ad libitum (15% refusal rate) throughout gestation (HN; n = 7 in Exp. 1, n = 6 in Exp. 2). Ewe BW was greater (P < 0.05) for HN than MN ewes beginning on 75 d and 52 d of gestation for Exp. 1 and 2, respectively. Final BCS was greater (P ≤ 0.05) for HN than MN ewes in both experiments; 3.5 vs. 3.0, respectively, for Exp. 1, and 4.8 vs. 2.9, respectively, for Exp. 2. Fasting maternal blood insulin concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.05) in HN ewes near term (135 d of gestation), whereas fasting maternal glucose concentrations were greater (P ≤ 0.05) during most of the second half of gestation in HN ewes, for both experiments. Gestation length did not differ (P = 0.69) between treatments in Exp. 1, but in Exp. 2, HN ewes had shorter (P = 0.01) gestation lengths (144 vs. 149 d) and had increased (P = 0.002) dystocia scores. Fetal abdominal circumference was greater (P < 0.05) in lambs from MN than HN ewes at 97 d of gestation in Exp. 1 (20.8 vs. 17.4 cm) but did not differ (P = 0.94) between treatments at 95 d of gestation in Exp. 2 (averaging 20.5 cm). There were no differences (P ≥ 0.15) in lamb BW, abdominal circumference, crown-rump length, and biparietal distance at birth; or in postnatal BW and plasma concentrations of glucose, insulin, and lactate in either experiment. There were no differences (P ≥ 0.18) in HCW, dressing percentage, LM area, fat thickness, or KPH between treatments in Exp. 2. Although there was no difference (P ≥ 0.31) between treatments in concentrations of IGF1 or IGF2 mRNA in liver samples collected at harvest, lambs from MN ewes had greater (P ≤ 0.05) concentrations of IGF1R and INSR mRNA, suggesting long-term effects of maternal diet on postnatal hepatic function. In conclusion, excess nutrition during gestation in naturally-mated adolescent ewes did not affect birth weight or postnatal performance of offspring.
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Affiliation(s)
- R K Peel
- Department of Animal Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins, CO 80523, USA.
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Verbeek E, Oliver MH, Waas JR, McLeay LM, Blache D, Matthews LR. Reduced cortisol and metabolic responses of thin ewes to an acute cold challenge in mid-pregnancy: implications for animal physiology and welfare. PLoS One 2012; 7:e37315. [PMID: 22662144 PMCID: PMC3360704 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0037315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2012] [Accepted: 04/18/2012] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Low food availability leading to reductions in Body Condition Score (BCS; 0 indicates emaciation and 5 obesity) in sheep often coincides with low temperatures associated with the onset of winter in New Zealand. The ability to adapt to reductions in environmental temperature may be impaired in animals with low BCS, in particular during pregnancy when metabolic demand is higher. Here we assess whether BCS affects a pregnant animal's ability to cope with cold challenges. METHODS Eighteen pregnant ewes with a BCS of 2.7±0.1 were fed to attain low (LBC: BCS2.3±0.1), medium (MBC: BCS3.2±0.2) or high BCS (HBC: BCS3.6±0.2). Shorn ewes were exposed to a 6-h acute cold challenge in a climate-controlled room (wet and windy conditions, 4.4±0.1°C) in mid-pregnancy. Blood samples were collected during the BCS change phase, acute cold challenge and recovery phase. RESULTS During the BCS change phase, plasma glucose and leptin concentrations declined while free fatty acids (FFA) increased in LBC compared to MBC (P<0.01, P<0.01 and P<0.05, respectively) and HBC ewes (P<0.05, P<0.01 and P<0.01, respectively). During the cold challenge, plasma cortisol concentrations were lower in LBC than MBC (P<0.05) and HBC ewes (P<0.05), and FFA and insulin concentrations were lower in LBC than HBC ewes (P<0.05 and P<0.001, respectively). Leptin concentrations declined in MBC and HBC ewes while remaining unchanged in LBC ewes (P<0.01). Glucose concentrations and internal body temperature (T(core)) increased in all treatments, although peak T(core) tended to be higher in HBC ewes (P<0.1). During the recovery phase, T4 concentrations were lower in LBC ewes (P<0.05). CONCLUSION Even though all ewes were able to increase T(core) and mobilize glucose, low BCS animals had considerably reduced cortisol and metabolic responses to a cold challenge in mid-pregnancy, suggesting that their ability to adapt to cold challenges through some of the expected pathways was reduced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Else Verbeek
- Department of Biological Sciences, University of Waikato, Hamilton, New Zealand.
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Hayward CE, Greenwood SL, Sibley CP, Baker PN, Challis JRG, Jones RL. Effect of maternal age and growth on placental nutrient transport: potential mechanisms for teenagers' predisposition to small-for-gestational-age birth? Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2012; 302:E233-42. [PMID: 22028413 PMCID: PMC3340900 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00192.2011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Teenagers have an increased risk of delivering small-for-gestational-age (SGA) infants. Young maternal age and continued skeletal growth have been implicated as causal factors. In growing adolescent sheep, impaired placental development and nutrient transfer cause reduced birth weight. In human pregnancies, SGA is associated with reduced placental amino acid transport. Maternal growth has no effect on placental morphology or cell turnover, but growing teenagers have higher birth weight:placental weight ratios than nongrowing teenagers. We hypothesized that placental nutrient transporter activity would be affected by maternal age and/or growth status. Placentas from teenagers and adults were collected. Teenagers were defined as growing or nongrowing based on knee height measurements. System A amino acid transporter activity was quantified as sodium-dependent uptake of [(14)C]methylaminoisobutyric acid into placental fragments. Teenagers had lower placental system A activity than adults (P < 0.05). In adults, placental system A activity was lower in SGA infants than appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) infants (P < 0.05). In teenagers, AGA and SGA infants had lower placental system A activity than AGA infants born to adults (P < 0.05). Placental system A activity was higher in growing teenagers than in nongrowing teenagers (P < 0.001). Placental mRNA expression of system A transporter isoforms SLC38A1 and -2 was lower in teenagers than in adults (P < 0.05) but did not differ between growing and nongrowing teenagers. There was no difference in transporter protein expression/localization between cohorts. Teenagers have inherently reduced placental transport, which may underlie their susceptibility to delivering SGA infants. Growing teenagers appear to overcome this susceptibility by stimulating the activity, but not expression, of system A transporters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina E Hayward
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Oxford Road, Manchester, UK.
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Kenyon P, van der Linden D, Jenkinson C, Morris S, Mackenzie D, Peterson S, Firth E, Blair H. The effect of ewe size and nutritional regimen beginning in early pregnancy on development of singleton foetuses in late pregnancy. Livest Sci 2011; 142:92-8. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2011.06.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
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Blair H, der Linden DV, Jenkinson C, Morris S, Mackenzie D, Peterson S, Firth E, Kenyon P. Do ewe size and nutrition during pregnancy affect foetus and foetal organ weight in twins? Livest Sci 2011; 142:99-107. [DOI: 10.1016/j.livsci.2011.06.022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
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Hayward CE, Greenwood SL, Sibley CP, Baker PN, Jones RL. Effect of young maternal age and skeletal growth on placental growth and development. Placenta 2011; 32:990-8. [PMID: 22005108 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2011.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2011] [Revised: 09/22/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 10/16/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Teenagers are susceptible to delivering small-for-gestational-age infants. Previous studies implicate continued skeletal growth as a contributory factor, and impaired placental development was the primary cause of fetal growth restriction in growing adolescent sheep. The aims of this study were to examine the impact of young maternal age and growth on placental development. STUDY DESIGN Placentas were collected from 31 teenagers, of which 12 were growing and 17 non-growing based on knee height measurements. An adult control group (n = 12) was included. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Placental weight and morphometric measurements of villous, syncytiotrophoblast, fibrin and vessel areas, as well as indices of proliferation and apoptosis, were analysed in relation to maternal growth and age. RESULTS Growing teenagers had a higher birthweight:placental weight ratio than non-growing teenagers (p < 0.05). Villous area, syncytial area, fibrin content, vascularisation and cell turnover did not differ between growing and non-growing teenagers. There were no differences in placental weight or morphometry between adult and teenage pregnancies. Maternal smoking, a potential confounding factor, did not exert a major influence on the placental parameters examined, except for a stimulatory effect on placental proliferation (p < 0.05) and syncytial knot formation (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS We were unable to detect any major differences in placental size or composition between growing and non-growing teenagers. Birthweight:placental weight ratio was higher in growing compared to non-growing teenagers. This suggests that maternal growth may affect placental function rather than development, and is consistent with our recent observations that maternal growth was not detrimental to fetal growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- C E Hayward
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, School of Biomedicine, University of Manchester, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Research, 5th Floor, Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9WL, UK.
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Carr DJ, Aitken RP, Milne JS, David AL, Wallace JM. Ultrasonographic assessment of growth and estimation of birthweight in late gestation fetal sheep. Ultrasound Med Biol 2011; 37:1588-1595. [PMID: 21821347 DOI: 10.1016/j.ultrasmedbio.2011.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2011] [Revised: 06/13/2011] [Accepted: 06/22/2011] [Indexed: 05/31/2023]
Abstract
Our aim was to identify which ultrasound parameters can be most accurately measured and best predict ovine fetal weight in late gestation. Singleton pregnancies were established using embryo transfer in 32 adolescent ewes, which were subsequently overnourished to produce fetuses of variable size (1720-6260 g). Ultrasound measurements at 126-133 days gestation were compared with fetal weight/biometry at late-gestation necropsy (n = 19) or term delivery (n = 13). Abdominal circumference (AC) and renal volume (RV) correlated best with physical measurements (r = 0.78-0.83) and necropsy/birth weight (r = 0.79-0.84). Combination of AC + RV produced an estimated fetal weight equation [Log EFW = 2.115 + 0.003 AC + 0.12 RV - 0.005 RV(2)] with highest adjusted R(2) (0.72) and lowest mean absolute/percentage prediction error (396-550 g/11.1%-13.2%). In conclusion, AC and RV are parameters of choice for assessment of late-gestation ovine fetal growth and can be used to estimate fetal weight with similar accuracy to human fetuses.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J Carr
- Rowett Institute of Nutrition and Health, University of Aberdeen, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, United Kingdom.
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Wallace JM, Milne JS, Adam CL, Aitken RP. Adverse metabolic phenotype in low-birth-weight lambs and its modification by postnatal nutrition. Br J Nutr 2012; 107:510-22. [DOI: 10.1017/s0007114511003175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
Both high and low maternal dietary intakes adversely affect fetal nutrient supply in adolescent sheep pregnancies. Aims were: (a) to assess the impact of prenatal nutrition on pregnancy outcome, offspring growth and offspring glucose metabolism and (b) to determine whether the offspring metabolic phenotype could then be altered by modifying postnatal nutrition. Dams carrying a single fetus were offered either an optimal control (C) intake to maintain adiposity throughout pregnancy, undernourished to maintain weight at conception but deplete maternal reserves (UN), or overnourished to promote rapid maternal growth and adiposity (ON). Placental weight and gestation length were reduced in ON dams and lamb birth weights were C>UN>ON (P < 0·001). All offspring were fed ad libitum from weaning to 6 months of age. ON offspring exhibited rapid catch-up growth and had increased fasting glucose and relative glucose intolerance compared with C offspring (P < 0·05). Irrespective of prenatal diet and sex, birth weight correlated negatively with these indices of glucose metabolism. From 7 to 12 months offspring either had continued ad libitum diet (ADLIB; to induce an obesogenic state) or a decreased ration appropriate for normal growth (NORM). At 12 months, the negative relationship between birth weight and indices of glucose metabolism persisted in ADLIB females (for example, fasting glucose, r − 0·632; P < 0·03) but was absent in NORM females and in both male groups. Therefore, low-birth-weight offspring from differentially achieved prenatal malnutrition exhibit an early adverse metabolic phenotype, and this can apparently be ameliorated by postnatal nutrition in females but not in males.
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Adam C, Bake T, Findlay P, Milne J, Aitken R, Wallace J. Effects of altered glucose supply and adiposity on expression of hypothalamic energy balance regulatory genes in late gestation growth restricted ovine fetuses. Int J Dev Neurosci 2011; 29:775-81. [DOI: 10.1016/j.ijdevneu.2011.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2011] [Revised: 05/11/2011] [Accepted: 05/11/2011] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- C.L. Adam
- Early Life Nutrition GroupObesity & Metabolic Health DivisionRowett Institute of Nutrition & HealthUniversity of AberdeenBucksburnAberdeenAB21 9SBUK
| | - T. Bake
- Early Life Nutrition GroupObesity & Metabolic Health DivisionRowett Institute of Nutrition & HealthUniversity of AberdeenBucksburnAberdeenAB21 9SBUK
| | - P.A. Findlay
- Early Life Nutrition GroupObesity & Metabolic Health DivisionRowett Institute of Nutrition & HealthUniversity of AberdeenBucksburnAberdeenAB21 9SBUK
| | - J.S. Milne
- Early Life Nutrition GroupObesity & Metabolic Health DivisionRowett Institute of Nutrition & HealthUniversity of AberdeenBucksburnAberdeenAB21 9SBUK
| | - R.P. Aitken
- Early Life Nutrition GroupObesity & Metabolic Health DivisionRowett Institute of Nutrition & HealthUniversity of AberdeenBucksburnAberdeenAB21 9SBUK
| | - J.M. Wallace
- Early Life Nutrition GroupObesity & Metabolic Health DivisionRowett Institute of Nutrition & HealthUniversity of AberdeenBucksburnAberdeenAB21 9SBUK
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Wallace JM, Milne JS, Green LR, Aitken RP. Postnatal hypothalamic - pituitary - adrenal function in sheep is influenced by age and sex, but not by prenatal growth restriction. Reprod Fertil Dev 2011; 23:275-84. [DOI: 10.1071/rd10103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2010] [Accepted: 06/29/2010] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
The relationship between impaired fetal nutrient supply and postnatal hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) function was examined in ovine models of prenatal growth restriction (GR) caused by small placental size (SP) or by maternal undernutrition (UN). Adrenocorticotrophin (ACTH) and cortisol responses following corticotrophin-releasing hormone (CRH) plus arginine vasopressin (AVP) challenge were examined at 9, 18 and 24 months in growth-restricted (GR-SP) and normal birthweight (control) females (Experiment 1), and at 6 months in growth-restricted (GR-SP, GR-UN) and normal weight males and females (Experiment 2). In Experiment 1, GR-SP offspring were born early, were 40% lighter at birth and had higher fractional weight gains to weaning than control offspring. Baseline ACTH and cortisol were independent of GR and cortisol decreased with age. GR did not affect the HPA response to CRH + AVP challenge at any stage, but ACTH increased with age. In Experiment 2, birthweight was greater in control offspring than in GR-UN offspring, which had a higher birthweight again compared with GR-SP offspring. Only the latter group was born early and exhibited rapid catch-up growth to weaning. Neither nutritional route to GR altered HPA function at 6 months. Males grew faster than females and HPA responses after stimulation were lower in males. Together, the results of these studies demonstrate that postnatal HPA function in sheep is influenced by age and sex, but not by GR.
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Neville TL, Caton JS, Hammer CJ, Reed JJ, Luther JS, Taylor JB, Redmer DA, Reynolds LP, Vonnahme KA. Ovine offspring growth and diet digestibility are influenced by maternal selenium supplementation and nutritional intake during pregnancy despite a common postnatal diet1. J Anim Sci 2010; 88:3645-56. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2009-2666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Meyer AM, Reed JJ, Neville TL, Taylor JB, Hammer CJ, Reynolds LP, Redmer DA, Vonnahme KA, Caton JS. Effects of plane of nutrition and selenium supply during gestation on ewe and neonatal offspring performance, body composition, and serum selenium1. J Anim Sci 2010; 88:1786-800. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2009-2435] [Citation(s) in RCA: 55] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
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Thorson JF, Karren BJ, Bauer ML, Cavinder CA, Coverdale JA, Hammer CJ. Effect of selenium supplementation and plane of nutrition on mares and their foals: Foaling data1. J Anim Sci 2010; 88:982-90. [DOI: 10.2527/jas.2008-1646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
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Abstract
Low birth weight and prematurity are associated with short inter-pregnancy intervals, low pre-pregnancy weights, insufficient maternal weight gains during pregnancy, multifetal pregnancies and a young maternal age. Improvements in maternal nutritional status are arguably imperative for ensuring an appropriate pregnancy outcome in these vulnerable groups, but ethical boundaries limit these investigations. Experimental paradigms using the pregnant sheep have been widely used to identify the nutritionally sensitive periods of conceptus development. In adult sheep, severe undernutrition during the periconceptual period accelerates maturation of the fetal hypothalamic-pituitary adrenal axis and results in pre-term delivery. Low pre-pregnancy weight, followed by undernutrition during mid-pregnancy, results in reduced placental growth and lower birth weights at term. Studies that have restricted nutrients during mid-gestation only reveal variable effects on the placental and fetal growth trajectory, however if undernutrition is prolonged during late-pregnancy, fetal growth is compromised, particularly in twin pregnancies. In contrast, overnourishing the adolescent sheep to promote rapid maternal growth, results in the premature delivery of low birth weight lambs. These effects are mediated by impaired placental growth, uteroplacental blood flows and fetal nutrient uptakes. At the other end of the nutritional spectrum, undernourishing the adolescent sheep to gradually deplete nutrient reserves, results in fetal growth restriction which is independent of alterations in placental mass.
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Vonnahme KA, Arndt WJ, Johnson ML, Borowicz PP, Reynolds LP. Effect of morphology on placentome size, vascularity, and vasoreactivity in late pregnant sheep. Biol Reprod 2008; 79:976-82. [PMID: 18685124 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.108.070748] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Ovine placentomes vary in shape, with type A placentomes being concave, type D convex, and types B and C intermediate in morphology. It has been speculated that as placentomes advance in type they differ in vascularity and nutrient transport capacity. Our objective was to determine cellularity and vascularity measurements, angiogenic factor expression, and arterial vasoactivity within different morphologic types of placentomes. On Day 130 of gestation, placentomes were collected from multiparous ewes (n = 38) and were evaluated for size, cellularity estimates, angiogenic factor mRNA expression, capillary vascularity (capillary size, capillary surface density [CSD], capillary number density [CND], and capillary area density [CAD]), and vasoreactivity to potassium chloride and angiotensin II. The average weight and size of type A and B placentomes were less (P < 0.01) than those of type C and D placentomes. Placentome morphology did not affect (P > or = 0.24) cotyledonary or caruncular cellularity estimates or percentage of cellular proliferation. Placentome morphology affected (P > or = 0.41) neither caruncular CAD, CND, CSD, or capillary size nor cotyledonary CND, CSD, or capillary size. Cotyledonary CAD was increased (P < 0.01) in type B and D placentomes compared with type A placentomes. Furthermore, placentome type did not affect (P > or = 0.06) angiogenic factor gene expression in the cotyledon or the caruncle. Size, but not morphologic type of placentome, was associated with greater caruncular artery contractility to potassium chloride and angiotensin II (P < 0.01 for both). Placentome size, but not morphologic type, may be important for vascularity and nutrient transfer in the placenta of the pregnant ewe.
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Affiliation(s)
- K A Vonnahme
- Department of Animal Sciences, Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, North Dakota State University, Fargo, North Dakota 58105, USA.
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Limesand SW, Rozance PJ, Smith D, Hay WW. Increased insulin sensitivity and maintenance of glucose utilization rates in fetal sheep with placental insufficiency and intrauterine growth restriction. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2007; 293:E1716-25. [PMID: 17895285 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00459.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 136] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
In this study we determined body weight-specific fetal (umbilical) glucose uptake (UGU), utilization (GUR), and production rates (GPR) and insulin action in intrauterine growth-restricted (IUGR) fetal sheep. During basal conditions, UGU from the placenta was 33% lower in IUGR fetuses, but GUR was not different between IUGR and control fetuses. The difference between glucose utilization and UGU rates in the IUGR fetuses demonstrated the presence and rate of fetal GPR (41% of GUR). The mRNA concentrations of the gluconeogenic enzymes glucose-6-phophatase and PEPCK were higher in the livers of IUGR fetuses, perhaps in response to CREB activation, as phosphorylated CREB/total CREB was increased 4.2-fold. A hyperglycemic clamp resulted in similar rates of glucose uptake and utilization in IUGR and control fetuses. The nearly identical GURs in IUGR and control fetuses at both basal and high glucose concentrations occurred at mean plasma insulin concentrations in the IUGR fetuses that were approximately 70% lower than controls, indicating increased insulin sensitivity. Furthermore, under basal conditions, hepatic glycogen content was similar, skeletal muscle glycogen was increased 2.2-fold, the fraction of fetal GUR that was oxidized was 32% lower, and GLUT1 and GLUT4 concentrations in liver and skeletal muscle were the same in IUGR fetuses compared with controls. These results indicate that insulin-responsive fetal tissues (liver and skeletal muscle) adapt to the hypoglycemic-hypoinsulinemic IUGR environment with mechanisms that promote glucose utilization, particularly for glucose storage, including increased insulin action, glucose production, shunting of glucose utilization to glycogen production, and maintenance of glucose transporter concentrations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sean W Limesand
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Colorado Health Sciences Center, Aurora, Colorado, USA.
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Wallace JM, Milne JS, Aitken RP, Hay WW. Sensitivity to metabolic signals in late-gestation growth-restricted fetuses from rapidly growing adolescent sheep. Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab 2007; 293:E1233-41. [PMID: 17711986 DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00294.2007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Fetal sensitivity to insulin and glucose was investigated during fetal hyperinsulinemic-euglycemic (HI-euG, n = 18) and hyperglycemic-euinsulinemic (HG-euI, n = 12) clamps. Singleton bearing adolescent ewes were fed high (H) or control (C) nutrient intakes to induce compromised or normal placental/fetal size, respectively. Catheters were inserted in the umbilical vein (v), fetal artery, (a) and veins, and studies were conducted between day 126 and 133 of gestation. Umbilical blood flow (UmBF) was determined by the steady-state transplacental diffusion technique using (3)H(2)O, and glucose fluxes were quantified by the Fick principle. For the HI-euG study, fetal glucose utilization was measured at spontaneously occurring fetal insulin concentrations and two additional higher levels, whereas fetal glucose was clamped at the initial baseline level. For the HG-euI study, fetal insulin was suppressed by somatostatin infusion, and fetal glucose utilization was determined at baseline (before somatostatin) glucose concentrations, and at 150 and 200% of this value. Placentome weight (219 vs. 395 g), fetal weight (2,965 vs. 4,373 g), and UmBF (519 vs. 794 ml/min) were lower (P < 0.001) in H than in C groups. Relative to control fetuses, glucose extraction (G[v - a]/G[v] x 100) in the nonperturbed state was higher (21.7 vs. 15.9%) in growth-restricted fetuses despite lower glucose (0.78 vs. 1.05 micromol/ml) and insulin (8.5 vs. 16.9 microU/ml) concentrations (all P < 0.001). During the HI-euG study, total fetal glucose utilization rate increased in response to higher insulin concentrations (65 and 64% in H and C groups). Similarly during the HG-euI study, a twofold increase in glucose supply increased fetal glucose utilization by 41 and 44% in H and C groups, respectively. Throughout both studies, absolute total fetal glucose utilization rates were reduced in H vs. C groups (P < 0.01) but were similar when expressed per kilogram fetus (HI-euG: 34.7, 49.5, and 57.5 in H vs. 34.7, 51.2, and 56.1 micromol.min(-1).kg(-1) in C, HG-euI: 28.7, 35.7, and 40.8 in H vs. 32.9, 34.5, and 43.8 micromol.min(-1).kg(-1) in C). These normal body weight-specific metabolic responses to short-term experimental increases in plasma insulin and glucose in response to chronic IUGR indicate maintained mechanisms of insulin action and glucose uptake/utilization capacity, which, if persistent, might predispose such IUGR offspring to excessive energy deposition in later life.
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Abstract
1. There is increasing evidence that density-independent weather effects influence life-history traits and hence the dynamics of populations of animals. Here, we present a novel statistical approach to estimate when such influences are strongest. The method is demonstrated by analyses investigating the timing of the influence of weather on the birth weight of sheep and deer. 2. The statistical technique allowed for the pattern of temporal correlation in the weather data enabling the effects of weather in many fine-scale time intervals to be investigated simultaneously. Thus, while previous studies have typically considered weather averaged across a single broad time interval during pregnancy, our approach enabled examination simultaneously of the relationships with weekly and fortnightly averages throughout the whole of pregnancy. 3. We detected a positive effect of temperature on the birth weight of deer, which is strongest in late pregnancy (mid-March to mid-April), and a negative effect of rainfall on the birthweight of sheep, which is strongest during mid-pregnancy (late January to early February). The possible mechanisms underlying these weather-birth weight relationships are discussed. 4. This study enhances our insight into the pattern of the timing of influence of weather on early development. The method is of much more general application and could provide valuable insights in other areas of ecology in which sequences of intercorrelated explanatory variables have been collected in space or in time.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle Sims
- Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland, The Macaulay Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen AB15 8QH, UK.
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Harrison JL, Adam CL, Brown YA, Wallace JM, Aitken RP, Lea RG, Miller DW. An immunohistochemical study of the localization and developmental expression of ghrelin and its functional receptor in the ovine placenta. Reprod Biol Endocrinol 2007; 5:25. [PMID: 17594504 PMCID: PMC1924515 DOI: 10.1186/1477-7827-5-25] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2007] [Accepted: 06/27/2007] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ghrelin is an orexigenic hormone principally produced by the stomach, but also by numerous peripheral tissues including the placenta. Ghrelin acts via growth hormone secretagogue receptors (GHSR-1a) to alter food intake, fat utilization, and cellular proliferation, and has been suggested to play a role in the developmental growth of the fetoplacental unit. The placental expression of ghrelin and its role in ruminant species is not known. We tested the hypotheses that ghrelin and its functional receptor, GHSR-1a, are present in tissues of the ovine placenta, and that their expression is linked to the stage of development. METHODS Antibodies raised against ghrelin and GHSR-1a were used in standard immunohistochemical protocols on placental tissues collected from pregnant ewes (n = 6 per gestational time point) at days 50, 80, 100, 128 and 135 of gestation (term approximately day 145). Immunostaining for ghrelin and GHSR-1a was quantified using computer-aided image analysis. Image analysis data were subjected to one-way ANOVA, with differences in immunostaining between time-points determined by Fisher's least significant difference. RESULTS Positive immunostaining for ghrelin was detected in ovine placentae at all gestational time points, with staining localized to the maternal epithelium, caruncle and trophectoderm. There was a significant effect of gestational age (p < 0.001) on the placental expression of ghrelin, with maximal levels at gestational day 80. GHSR-1a immunostaining was detected in the fetal trophectoderm at all time points. In contrast to the gestational pattern of ghrelin expression, there was no effect of gestational age on placental GHSR-1a immunoexpression. CONCLUSION Ghrelin and GHSR-1a are both present in the ovine placenta, and ghrelin displays a developmentally-related pattern of expression. Therefore, these data strongly suggest that the ghrelin system may have a role in feto-placental development in sheep.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joanne L Harrison
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA, Australia
- Obesity & Metabolic Health Division, Rowett Research Institute, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, UK
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Clare L Adam
- Obesity & Metabolic Health Division, Rowett Research Institute, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Yvonne A Brown
- School of Biological Sciences, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Jacqueline M Wallace
- Obesity & Metabolic Health Division, Rowett Research Institute, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Raymond P Aitken
- Obesity & Metabolic Health Division, Rowett Research Institute, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Richard G Lea
- Obesity & Metabolic Health Division, Rowett Research Institute, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, UK
- School of Veterinary Medicine and Science, University of Nottingham, Sutton Bonington Campus, Leicestershire, UK
| | - David W Miller
- School of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences, Murdoch University, South Street, Murdoch, WA, Australia
- Sustainable Livestock Systems Group, Scottish Agricultural College, Bucksburn, Aberdeen, UK
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Luther J, Aitken R, Milne J, Matsuzaki M, Reynolds L, Redmer D, Wallace J. Maternal and fetal growth, body composition, endocrinology, and metabolic status in undernourished adolescent sheep. Biol Reprod 2007; 77:343-50. [PMID: 17475926 DOI: 10.1095/biolreprod.107.061440] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
The influence of relative maternal undernutrition on growth, endocrinology, and metabolic status in the adolescent ewe and her fetus were investigated at Days 90 and 130 of gestation. Singleton pregnancies to a single sire were established, and thereafter ewes were offered an optimal control (C; n = 14) or low (L [0.7 x C]; n = 21) dietary intake. Seven ewes receiving the L intake were switched to the C intake on Day 90 of gestation (L-C). At Day 90, live weight and adiposity score were reduced (P < 0.001) in L versus C dams. Plasma insulin and IGF1 concentrations were decreased (P < 0.02), whereas glucose concentrations were preserved in L relative to C intake dams. Fetal and placental mass was independent of maternal nutrition at this stage. By Day 130 of gestation, when compared to C and L-C dams, maternal adiposity was further depleted in L intake dams; concentrations of insulin, IGF1, and glucose were reduced; and nonesterified fatty acids increased. At Day 130, placental mass remained independent of maternal nutrition, but body weight was reduced (P < 0.01) in L compared with C fetuses (3555 g vs. 4273 g). Body weight was intermediate (3836 g) in L-C fetuses. Plasma glucose (P < 0.03), insulin (P < 0.07), and total liver glycogen content (P < 0.04) were attenuated in L fetuses. Fetal carcass analyses revealed absolute reductions (P < 0.05) in dry matter, crude protein, and fat, and a relative (g/kg) increase in carcass ash (P < 0.01) in L compared with C fetuses. Thus, limiting maternal intake during adolescent pregnancy gradually depleted maternal body reserves, impaired fetal nutrient supply, and slowed fetal soft tissue growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Luther
- Rowett Research Institute, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, United Kingdom
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Ericsson A, Säljö K, Sjöstrand E, Jansson N, Prasad PD, Powell TL, Jansson T. Brief hyperglycaemia in the early pregnant rat increases fetal weight at term by stimulating placental growth and affecting placental nutrient transport. J Physiol 2007; 581:1323-32. [PMID: 17430988 PMCID: PMC2170823 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2007.131185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 62] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In pregnant women with type 1 diabetes, suboptimal glucose control in the first trimester is a strong predictor for giving birth to a large fetus. However, the mechanisms underlying this association are unknown. We hypothesized that transient hyperglycaemia in early pregnancy results in (1) increased placental growth and (2) an up-regulation of placental nutrient transport capacity, which leads to fetal overgrowth at term. In order to test this hypothesis, pregnant rats were given intraperitoneal injections of glucose (2 g kg(-1), resulting in a 50-100% increase in blood glucose level during 90 min) or saline (control) in either early or late gestation using four different protocols: one single injection on gestational day (GD) 10 (n=5), three injections on GD 10 (n=8-9), six injections on GD 10 and 11 (n=9-11) or three injections on GD 19 (n=7-8). Multiple injections were given approximately 4 h apart. Subsequently, animals were studied on GD 21. Three glucose injections in early pregnancy significantly increased placental weight by 10%, whereas fetal weight was found to be increased at term in response to both three (9% increase in fetal weight, P<0.05) and six glucose injections (7%, P=0.05) in early gestation. A single glucose injection on GD 10 or three injections of glucose on GD 19 had no effect on placental or fetal growth. In groups where a change in feto-placental growth was observed, we measured placental system A and glucose transport activity in the awake animals on GD 21 and placental expression of the glucose and amino acid transporters GLUT1, GLUT3, SNAT2 (system A), LAT1 and LAT 2 (system L). Placental system A transport at term was down-regulated by six glucose injections in early pregnancy (by -33%, P<0.05), whereas placental mRNA and protein levels were unchanged. No long-term alterations in maternal metabolic status were detected. In conclusion, we demonstrate that transient hyperglycaemia in early pregnancy is sufficient to increase fetal weight close to term. In contrast, brief hyperglycaemia in late pregnancy did not stimulate fetal growth. Increased fetal growth may be explained by a larger placenta, which would allow for more nutrients to be transferred to the fetus. These data suggest that maternal metabolic control in early pregnancy is an important determinant for feto-placental growth and placental function throughout the remainder of gestation. We speculate that maternal metabolism in early pregnancy represents a key environmental cue to which the placenta responds in order to match fetal growth rate with the available resources of the mother.
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MESH Headings
- Amino Acid Transport System A
- Amino Acid Transport System y+/metabolism
- Amino Acid Transport Systems/metabolism
- Amino Acid Transport Systems, Neutral/genetics
- Amino Acid Transport Systems, Neutral/metabolism
- Animals
- Blood Glucose/metabolism
- Diabetes, Gestational/blood
- Diabetes, Gestational/chemically induced
- Diabetes, Gestational/metabolism
- Diabetes, Gestational/pathology
- Disease Models, Animal
- Female
- Fetal Nutrition Disorders/blood
- Fetal Nutrition Disorders/etiology
- Fetal Nutrition Disorders/metabolism
- Fetal Nutrition Disorders/pathology
- Fetal Weight
- Fusion Regulatory Protein 1, Light Chains/metabolism
- Gestational Age
- Glucose
- Glucose Transport Proteins, Facilitative/genetics
- Glucose Transport Proteins, Facilitative/metabolism
- Glucose Transporter Type 1/metabolism
- Glucose Transporter Type 3/metabolism
- Hyperglycemia/blood
- Hyperglycemia/chemically induced
- Hyperglycemia/complications
- Hyperglycemia/metabolism
- Hyperglycemia/pathology
- Insulin/blood
- Large Neutral Amino Acid-Transporter 1/metabolism
- Maternal-Fetal Exchange
- Organ Size
- Placenta/metabolism
- Placenta/pathology
- Pregnancy
- RNA, Messenger/metabolism
- Rats
- Rats, Sprague-Dawley
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Affiliation(s)
- Anette Ericsson
- Perinatal Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Gothenburg University, Box 432, s-405 30 Gothenburg, Sweden.
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Matsuzaki M, Milne JS, Aitken RP, Wallace JM. Overnourishing pregnant adolescent ewes preserves perirenal fat deposition in their growth-restricted fetuses. Reprod Fertil Dev 2006; 18:357-64. [PMID: 16554011 DOI: 10.1071/rd05067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2005] [Accepted: 11/13/2005] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Overnourishing the adolescent sheep promotes rapid maternal growth at the expense of the gravid uterus. The growth of the placenta is impaired and results in the premature delivery of low-birthweight lambs. The present study details fetal adipose tissue development in these growth-restricted pregnancies. Singleton pregnancies were established by embryo transfer and, thereafter, adolescent ewes were offered a high (H; n = 12) or moderate (M; n = 14) level of a complete diet until necropsy on Day 131 of gestation. Fetal weight was lower (P < 0.001) in H compared with M groups. High maternal intake preserved brain and perirenal fat weight (P < 0.003), whereas relative weights of the heart, lungs, spleen and liver were unaltered. High nutrient intake resulted in significantly elevated maternal plasma concentrations of insulin, leptin, prolactin and glucose, no significant changes in fetal insulin, leptin or non-esterified fatty acids and attenuated fetal prolactin concentrations. Irrespective of nutritional intake, maternal plasma leptin, prolactin and glucose concentrations were negatively correlated with fetal weight and were positively correlated with fetal perirenal fat proportion (all P < 0.01). The mRNA expression for leptin, prolactin receptor and uncoupling protein (UCP) 1 in fetal perirenal fat was equivalent between groups, but, irrespective of maternal nutrition, UCP1 mRNA levels were negatively correlated with fetal weight (P < 0.01). Thus, overnourishing pregnant adolescent sheep preserves fat deposition in their growth-restricted fetuses, which may have implications for neonatal thermogenesis and for programming of postnatal adiposity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Masatoshi Matsuzaki
- National Agricultural Research Center for Kyushu Okinawa Region, Nishigoshi-machi, Kumamoto 861-1192, Japan
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Guzmán C, Cabrera R, Cárdenas M, Larrea F, Nathanielsz PW, Zambrano E. Protein restriction during fetal and neonatal development in the rat alters reproductive function and accelerates reproductive ageing in female progeny. J Physiol 2006; 572:97-108. [PMID: 16497715 PMCID: PMC1779641 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2005.103903] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Recent studies demonstrate long-term programming of function of specific organ systems resulting from suboptimal environments during fetal life and development up to weaning. Nutrient restriction during pregnancy and lactation impairs overall fetal growth and development. We determined the effects of maternal protein restriction (MPR; 50% normal protein intake) during fetal development and/or lactation in rats on the function and ageing of the reproductive system of female progeny. Rats were fed either a control 20% casein diet (C) or a restricted diet (R) of 10% casein during pregnancy. After delivery mothers received either C or R diet until weaning to provide four groups, CC, RR, CR and RC. We report data on female offspring only. After weaning pups were fed the C diet. MPR increased maternal progesterone, corticosterone, oestradiol and testosterone concentrations at 19 days gestation. Reproductive and somatic phenotype was altered as pup birth weight was decreased, and ano-genital distance was increased by MPR. Pup corticosterone was decreased at 2 days postnatal (PN) life. Vaginal opening and timing of the first oestrus were delayed in RR and CR and these differences were not related to body weight. At 21 days PN oestradiol in RR and CR and progesterone in RR were reduced; at 70 days PN luteinizing hormone (LH) in all restricted groups was reduced in dioestrus while follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) was unchanged. Cycle length increased between 140 days and 1 year in RR and CR but remained unchanged in CC, providing evidence of premature ageing of reproductive function. Fertility rates declined over the same period in the three experimental groups but not CC. MPR in one of the two experimental periods, either pregnancy or lactation, resulted in decreased pup survival compared with CC and RR. These data show that MPR results in delayed sexual maturation and premature ageing of reproductive function.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Guzmán
- Department of Reproductive Biology, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Vasco de Quiroga 15, Tlalpan 14000, México, D.F. México
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Abstract
Overnourishing the singleton-bearing adolescent sheep throughout pregnancy promotes maternal tissue synthesis at the expense of the nutrient requirements of the gravid uterus. Consequently, the growth of the placenta is impaired and results in the premature delivery of low-birth-weight lambs relative to moderately fed adolescents of equivalent age. To establish if this phenomenon is unique to the growing animal, singleton pregnancies to a single sire were established by embryo transfer into primiparous adult ewes who had attained the normal mature body size for their genotype. Thereafter ewes were offered a maintenance or a high level of a complete diet throughout gestation. High maternal intakes resulted in elevated maternal insulin, no significant change in growth hormone or glucose, and attenuated progesterone and NEFA concentrations. Live weight gain during the first 93 d of gestation was 48 and 244 g/d, and adiposity score at term was 2.4 and 3.7 in the maintenance and high groups, respectively (P<0.001). In spite of achieving levels of adiposity similar to overnourished adolescents, placental (477 (sem 30) v. 518 (sem 41) g) and fetal (5190 (sem 320) v. 5420 (sem 250) g) weights were equivalent in maintenance and high groups. Gestation length was shorter (P<0.01) and colostrum yield at parturition lower (P<0.05) in high v. maintenance dams. Thus, adult sheep appear to be relatively insensitive to the oversupply of nutrients during pregnancy and have the ability to meet the nutrient requirements for normal conceptus growth in spite of their increased adiposity.
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Reynolds LP, Borowicz PP, Vonnahme KA, Johnson ML, Grazul-Bilska AT, Redmer DA, Caton JS. Placental angiogenesis in sheep models of compromised pregnancy. J Physiol 2005; 565:43-58. [PMID: 15760944 PMCID: PMC1464490 DOI: 10.1113/jphysiol.2004.081745] [Citation(s) in RCA: 96] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2004] [Accepted: 03/04/2005] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Because the placenta is the organ that transports nutrients, respiratory gases and wastes between the maternal and fetal systems, development of its vascular beds is essential to normal placental function, and thus in supporting normal fetal growth. Compromised fetal growth and development have adverse health consequences during the neonatal period and throughout adult life. To establish the role of placental angiogenesis in compromised pregnancies, we first evaluated the pattern of placental angiogenesis and expression of angiogenic factors throughout normal pregnancy. In addition, we and others have established a variety of sheep models to evaluate the effects on fetal growth of various factors including maternal nutrient excess or deprivation and specific nutrients, maternal age, maternal and fetal genotype, increased numbers of fetuses, environmental thermal stress, and high altitude (hypobaric) conditions. Although placental angiogenesis is altered in each of these models in which fetal growth is adversely affected, the specific effect on placental angiogenesis depends on the type of 'stress' to which the pregnancy is subjected, and also differs between the fetal and maternal systems and between genotypes. We believe that the models of compromised pregnancy and the methods described in this review will enable us to develop a much better understanding of the mechanisms responsible for alterations in placental vascular development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lawrence P Reynolds
- Center for Nutrition and Pregnancy, and Department of Animal and Range Sciences, North Dakota State University, Fargo, ND 58105-5727, USA.
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Abstract
Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) still accounts for a large incidence of infant mortality and morbidity worldwide. Many of the circulatory and transport properties of the sheep placenta are similar to those of the human placenta and as such, the pregnant sheep offers an excellent model in which to study the development of IUGR. Two natural models of ovine IUGR are those of hyperthermic exposure during pregnancy, and adolescent overfeeding, also during pregnancy. Both models yield significantly reduced placental weights and an asymmetrically growth-restricted fetus, and display altered maternal hormone concentrations, indicative of an impaired trophoblast capacity. Additionally, impaired placental angiogenesis and uteroplacental blood flow appears to be an early defect in both the hyperthermic and adolescent paradigms. The effects of these alterations in placental functional development appear to be irreversible. IUGR fetuses are both hypoxic and hypoglycaemic, and have reduced insulin and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), and elevated concentrations of lactate. However, fetal utilization of oxygen and glucose, on a weight basis, remain constant compared with control pregnancies. Maintained utilization of these substrates, in a substrate-deficient environment, suggests increased sensitivities to metabolic signals, which may play a role in the development of metabolic diseases in later adult life.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Wallace
- Rowett Research Institute, Bucksburn, Aberdeen AB21 9SB, UK.
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Bell A, Greenwood P, Ehrhardt R. Chapter 1 Regulation of metabolism and growth during prenatal life. Biology of Metabolism in Growing Animals. Elsevier; 2005. pp. 3-34. [DOI: 10.1016/s1877-1823(09)70008-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register]
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