Nutrigenetics, epigenetics and gestational diabetes: consequences in mother and child

The Role of the Intrauterine Environment in Shaping Childhood and Adolescence Metabolic Outcomes

Emerging research suggests that the intrauterine environment plays a critical role in predisposing individuals to metabolic syndrome (MetS), a constellation of conditions that heightens the risk for heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Traditionally linked to lifestyle, the risk for MetS is now understood to be also influenced by fetal exposures. The environment in which a child lives offers abundant potential sources that can contribute to an increased risk of developing various diseases, and in some cases, these factors can be avoided. This review integrates findings from both epidemiological and experimental research to underscore the impact of prenatal factors, including maternal nutrition, obesity, gestational diabetes (GDM), and birth size, on the subsequent development of metabolic derangements in offspring, particularly during puberty. The progression of genetic and epigenetic studies has enlightened the pathophysiology of these conditions starting in the intrauterine period and continuing into early life. By examining data and studies, this article elucidates the prenatal influences and underlying mechanisms that contribute to the pathogenesis of MetS. The updated understanding of the link between the intrauterine environment and future health comorbidities will draw attention to intrauterine care and maternal health and contribute to the prevention of serious diseases in adulthood.

Association between gestational diabetes mellitus and offspring health: a two-sample mendelian randomization study

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) constitutes a significant contributor to maternal and fetal morbidity, which is observed to be associated with future risks of offspring health. Nevertheless, it is essential to acknowledge that observational findings may be susceptible to residual confounding and bias.

METHODS

To investigate the association of GDM with offspring health, a genome-wide genetic association study employing Mendelian Randomization (MR) is conducted between May 31 and November 30, 2023. The inverse-variance-weighted (IVW) is utilized in the primary analysis stage. The study data of the majority patients are European ancestry, which are sourced from the IEU open genome-wide association study project.

RESULTS

Genetically predicted GDM is associated with an increased risk of various short- and long-term health problem in offspring. For fetal and neonatal conditions, GDM is linked to an elevated risk of preterm delivery [ odd ratio (OR) = 1.150, false discovery rate (FDR)-adjusted PIVW = 0.009] and placental disorders (OR = 2.143, FDR-adjusted PIVW = 0.028). In respiratory diseases, it is associated with a higher likelihood of influenza (OR = 1.175, FDR-adjusted PIVW = 0.008), bacterial pneumonia (OR = 1.141, FDR-adjusted PIVW = 0.008), congenital malformations of the respiratory system (OR = 1.673, FDR-adjusted PIVW = 0.033), influenza with pneumonia (OR = 1.078, FDR-adjusted PIVW = 0.008), and need for non-invasive ventilation (OR = 1.265, FDR-adjusted PIVW = 0.028). In terms of neurodevelopmental and psychiatric outcomes, GDM is linked to a higher risk of cerebral palsy (OR = 1.721, FDR-adjusted PIVW = 0.008). For urinary conditions, GDM increases the risk of acute tubulo-interstitial nephritis (OR = 1.098, FDR-adjusted PIVW = 0.008). No association is identified between genetically predicted GDM and major digestive diseases, such as gastroesophageal reflux, or cardiovascular conditions in offspring.

CONCLUSIONS

The findings of this study provide genetic evidence supporting an association between GDM and higher risk of offspring diseases. This supports classification of GDM as risk factors for short- and long-term offspring health.

Association between protein intake and sources in mid-pregnancy and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus

OBJECTIVES

This study aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary protein intake and sources in the second trimester of pregnancy and the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to further investigate the effects of total protein and animal protein intake on the risk of GDM.

METHODS

A case-control study was conducted, which involved 947 pregnant women in the second trimester from three hospitals in Jiangsu, China. Dietary intake was assessed using a 3-day 24-hour dietary recall and a food frequency questionnaire. Two models (leave-one-out and partition models) in nutritional epidemiology were used for substitution analysis, and logistic regression was performed to explore the relationships, adjusting for multiple confounding factors.

RESULTS

After adjusting for confounding factors, total protein intake was negatively correlated with GDM risk (OR [95% CI], 0.10 [0.04-0.27]; P<0.001). Animal protein also negatively correlated with GDM risk, but this became insignificant when total calorie, carbohydrate and fat intake were added as covariates to the analysis (0.68 [0.34-1.34]; P = 0.263). No association was found between plant protein and GDM(1.04 [0.69-1.58]; P = 0.852). Replacing carbohydrates with an equal energy ratio(5% of total energy intake) of total protein, animal protein and plant protein respectively reduced the risk of GDM by 45%, 46% and 51%.

CONCLUSIONS

The intake of total protein and animal protein, especially eggs, dairy products, and fish, can reduce the risk of GDM while consuming unprocessed red meat increases the risk. There is no significant association between the intakes of plant protein, processed meat, and poultry meat and the occurrence of GDM. The results of this study are expected to provide a basis for precise nutritional education, health guidance during pregnancy, and early prevention of GDM.

Maternal exercise programs placental miR-495-5p-mediated Snx7 expression and kynurenic acid metabolic pathway induced by prenatal high-fat diet: Based on miRNA-seq, transcriptomics, and metabolomics

Poor intrauterine environments increase the prevalence of chronic metabolic diseases in offspring, whereas maternal exercise is an effective measure to break this vicious intergenerational cycle. Placenta is increasingly being studied to explore its role in maternal-fetal metabolic cross-talk. The association between placental miRNA and offspring development trajectories has been established, yet the specific role and mechanism thereof in maternal exercise-induced metabolic protection remain elusive. Here, C57BL/6 female mice were subjected to either a normal control or a high-fat diet (HFD), half of the HFD-fed dams were housed with voluntary wheel running for 3 weeks before and during gestation. At embryonic day 18.5, we sacrificed parturient mice and then conducted miRNA-seq, transcriptomic, and metabolomic profiling of the placenta. Our data revealed that maternal HFD resulted in significant alterations in both miRNA and gene expressions, as well as metabolic pathways of the placenta, whereas prenatal exercise negated these perturbations. The common differentially expressed transcripts among three groups were enriched in multiple critical pathways involving energy expenditure, signal transduction, and fetal development. Through integrated analysis of multiomics data, we speculated that maternal exercise reversed the suppression of miR-495-5p induced by HFD, thereby inhibiting miR-495-5p-targeted Snx7 and modulating kynurenic acid production. These datasets provided novel mechanistic insight into how maternal exercise positively affects the metabolic homeostasis of offspring. The discovered important miRNAs, mRNAs, and metabolites could be promising predictive and therapeutic targets for protecting offspring metabolic health.

From Pregnancy to Breastfeeding: The Role of Maternal Exercise in Preventing Childhood Obesity

Low adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviors during pregnancy and lactation is strongly associated with a higher risk of childhood obesity. This narrative review aims to elucidate and summarize the pivotal role played by physical activity (PA) during pregnancy and breastfeeding, highlighting the potential mechanisms linking PA in these periods to the prevention of childhood obesity. Maternal exercise during pregnancy and breastfeeding significantly reduces the risk of childhood obesity by enhancing fetal metabolism, supporting healthy maternal weight management, and promoting improved breastfeeding practices. Pregnancy and the postpartum period represent critical windows for implementing preventive strategies that benefit both the mother and child. Encouraging an active lifestyle during pregnancy and breastfeeding is a vital public health strategy with extensive benefits. Healthcare professionals play a crucial role in creating supportive environments and providing tailored guidance to empower mothers to engage in regular PA. This approach not only enhances individual health outcomes but also contributes to the broader goal of fostering healthier communities.

Cellular senescence: from homeostasis to pathological implications and therapeutic strategies

Cellular aging is a multifactorial and intricately regulated physiological process with profound implications. The interaction between cellular senescence and cancer is complex and multifaceted, senescence can both promote and inhibit tumor progression through various mechanisms. M6A methylation modification regulates the aging process of cells and tissues by modulating senescence-related genes. In this review, we comprehensively discuss the characteristics of cellular senescence, the signaling pathways regulating senescence, the biomarkers of senescence, and the mechanisms of anti-senescence drugs. Notably, this review also delves into the complex interactions between senescence and cancer, emphasizing the dual role of the senescent microenvironment in tumor initiation, progression, and treatment. Finally, we thoroughly explore the function and mechanism of m6A methylation modification in cellular senescence, revealing its critical role in regulating gene expression and maintaining cellular homeostasis. In conclusion, this review provides a comprehensive perspective on the molecular mechanisms and biological significance of cellular senescence and offers new insights for the development of anti-senescence strategies.

Probiotic Supplementation during Pregnancy: Evaluating the Current Clinical Evidence against Gestational Diabetes Mellitus

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) constitutes a common metabolic disorder that could lead to deleterious short- and long-term complications in both the mother and her infant. Probiotic supplementation seems to exert diverse, healthy effects by acting as a preventive agent against various human diseases, including GDM.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of the current narrative review was to critically summarize and scrutinize the available clinical studies during the last 15 years (2008-2023) concerning the use of probiotic supplementation during pregnancy as a protecting agent against GDM.

METHODS

A thorough and in-depth search was performed in the most accurate scientific databases, e.g., PubMed., Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar applying effective, and relevant keywords.

RESULTS

There are currently some clinical studies suggesting the potential beneficial impact of probiotic supplementation in the prevention and/or co-treatment of GDM. Nevertheless, there is a high heterogeneity amongst the available clinical studies concerning the dosage, the administration duration, the probiotic species types, the method designs and protocols, and the study populations.

CONCLUSION

Probiotic supplementation at conventional dosages and in combination with a balanced healthy diet, and lifestyle seems to reduce the the risk of developing GDM, while ameliorating the severity of its symptoms. Further clinical studies taking into account the above considerations should be performed to establish conclusive results, while the future meta-analyses should include studies with the feasibly lowest heterogeneity.

The Impact of Gestational Diabetes on Kidney Development: is There an Epigenetic Link?

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

This review explores the mechanisms through which gestational diabetes mellitus GDM impacts fetal kidney development, focusing on epigenetic alterations as mediators of these effects. We examine the influence of GDM on nephrogenesis and kidney maturation, exploring how hyperglycemia-induced intrauterine stress can reduce nephron endowment and compromise renal function via dysregulation of normal epigenetic mechanisms.

RECENT FINDINGS

In addition to metabolic impacts, emerging evidence suggests that GDM exerts its influence through epigenetic modifications, including DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNA expression, which disrupt gene expression patterns critical for kidney development. Recently, specific epigenetic modifications observed in offspring exposed to GDM were implicated in aberrant activation or repression of genes essential for kidney development. Key pathways influenced by these epigenetic changes, such as oxidative stress response, inflammatory regulation, and metabolic pathways, are discussed to illustrate the broad molecular impact of GDM on renal development. Finally, we consider potential intervention strategies that could mitigate the adverse effects of GDM on kidney development. These include optimizing maternal glycemic control, dietary modifications, dietary supplementation, and pharmacological agents targeting epigenetic pathways. Through a comprehensive synthesis of current research, this review underscores the importance of early preventive strategies to reduce the burden of kidney disease in individuals exposed to GDM and highlights key epigenetic mechanisms altered during GDM that impact kidney development.

Vientiane Multigenerational Birth Cohort Project in Lao People's Democratic Republic: Protocol for Establishing a Longitudinal Multigenerational Birth Cohort to Promote Population Health

BACKGROUND

Rapid global population growth and urbanization have led to an increase in urban populations in low- and middle-income countries. Although these urban areas have generally better health outcomes than lower-income rural areas, many environmental, social, and health challenges remain. Vientiane, the capital of Lao People's Democratic Republic (Lao PDR), has approximately 1.5 of the 7.5 million Laotian population (2022) and provides a unique opportunity to examine health outcomes among socioeconomically diverse populations in the rapidly urbanizing context of the country.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the Vientiane multigenerational birth cohort (VITERBI) project is to (1) establish a multigenerational birth cohort in Vientiane capital, Lao PDR, which is representative of the local population, (2) serve as the basis for additional observational (ie, cross-sectional) and intervention studies that promote population health in Vientiane province, and (3) investigate the social, epidemiological, and medical problems of public health importance to Lao PDR.

METHODS

VITERBI is a prospective multigenerational birth cohort. The study population is structured around children born between July 1, 2022, and June 30, 2023, who reside in Chanthabuly, Sikhottabong, Sangthong, or Mayparkngum districts of Vientiane. Whenever possible, children and their mothers are enrolled during pregnancy; nonreported pregnancies are enrolled after birth. The cohort plans to enroll 3000 pregnant women and their children and the infants' fathers, grandparents, and great-grandparents for a total study population of approximately 13,000 individuals. Participants will be followed throughout the life course with a range of data collected, including demographics, behavior, diet, physical activity, physiology, neurodevelopment, health history, quality of life, environmental exposures, depression, anxiety, stress, resilience, household characteristics, obstetric history, birth outcomes, and various living and dementia scales for older adults. Biomarkers collected include height, weight, blood pressure, and hemoglobin levels. Currently, no statistical analyses are planned.

RESULTS

As of April 2024, this study has enrolled 3500 pregnant women and 4579 family members. Study participation is ongoing until May 2025 at minimum, with the goal to extend follow-up until 2050.

CONCLUSIONS

The study cohort will be used as a basis for further observational (cross-sectional, longitudinal) and intervention studies. It also serves as a tool to investigate social, epidemiological, and medical problems of public health importance to Lao PDR, which will contribute to broader understanding of regional and international contexts.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

DERR1-10.2196/59545.

Effect of exercise during pregnancy on offspring development through ameliorating high glucose and hypoxia in gestational diabetes mellitus

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) women require prenatal care to minimize short- and long-term complications. The mechanism by which exercise during pregnancy affects organ development and whether glucose transporter (GLUT) 1 plays a role in GDM offspring organ development remains unknown.

AIM

To determine the effect of exercise during pregnancy on the cardiac, hepatic and renal development of GDM mother's offspring.

METHODS

Placenta samples were collected from humans and mice. GDM mouse models were created using streptozotocin along with a GDM with exercise group. The hearts, livers and kidneys of 3- and 8-week-old offspring were collected for body composition analysis and staining. The effects of high glucose levels and hypoxia were investigated using HTR8/SVneo. Transwell and wound-healing assays were performed to assess cell migration. Immunofluorescence accompanied with TUNEL and Ki67 staining was used to explore apoptosis and proliferation.

RESULTS

Exercise during pregnancy downregulated the GLUT1 and hypoxia inducible factor-1α expression in placenta from individuals with GDM. Cobalt chloride-induced hypoxia and high glucose levels also significantly decreased migration and apoptosis of HTR8/SVneo cells. In addition, exercise reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the liver and decreased the tubular vacuolar area in the kidneys of offspring.

CONCLUSION

GDM affects the growth and development of organs in offspring. Exercise during pregnancy can reverse adverse effects of GDM on the development of the heart, liver, and kidney in offspring.

The P300-ARRDC3 axis participates in maternal subclinical hypothyroidism and is involved in abnormal hepatic insulin sensitivity in adult offspring

Numerous studies have suggested potential associations between maternal subclinical hypothyroidism (SCH) and adverse metabolic outcomes in offspring, however, the underlying mechanism remains unclear. In this study, we generated a maternal SCH mouse model by administering 50 ppm 6-propyl-2-thiouracil (PTU) in the drinking water of pregnant mice until delivery. This model was used to investigate the mechanisms influencing glucose metabolism in offspring. RNA sequencing (RNA-seq) revealed a substantial increase in ARRDC3 expression in the livers of the offspring of the SCH model mice, which may contribute to insulin resistance. Additionally, the phosphorylation levels of key proteins in the insulin signalling pathway, such as protein kinase B (Akt), glycogen synthase kinase 3 beta (GSK-3β), and Forkhead box protein O1 (FoxO1), were correspondingly reduced in the SCH offspring. Moreover, overexpression of ARRDC3 in Hepa1‒6 cells suppressed the Akt/GSK-3β/FoxO1 signalling pathway and increased the expression of glucose-6-phosphatase (G6Pase) and phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK), which was consistent with the molecular changes observed in SCH offspring. Our results also indicated that the upregulation of ARRDC3 in SCH offspring may result from increased H3K27 acetylation of the ARRDC3 promoter region, driven by elevated expression of P300. Importantly, adequate L-T4 supplementation during pregnancy improved insulin sensitivity and reversed the molecular alterations in the insulin signalling pathway observed in SCH offspring. In conclusion, exposure to intrauterine SCH resulted in altering the P300-ARRDC3 axis in offspring and impaired insulin sensitivity by disrupting the Akt/GSK-3β/FoxO1 signalling pathway. Timely L-T4 supplementation during pregnancy is an effective strategy to prevent insulin resistance in offspring of SCH mothers. This study elucidates potential molecular mechanisms behind insulin resistance in SCH offspring and suggests novel therapeutic targets for treating metabolic disorders related to maternal SCH.

Diagnosis of pregnancy disorder in the first-trimester patient plasma with Raman spectroscopy and protein analysis

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a pregnancy disorder associated with short- and long-term adverse outcomes in both mothers and infants. The current clinical test of blood glucose levels late in the second trimester is inadequate for early detection of GDM. Here we show the utility of Raman spectroscopy (RS) for rapid and highly sensitive maternal metabolome screening for GDM in the first trimester. Key metabolites, including phospholipids, carbohydrates, and major amino acids, were identified with RS and validated with mass spectrometry, enabling insights into associated metabolic pathway enrichment. Using classical machine learning (ML) approaches, we showed the performance of the RS metabolic model (cross-validation AUC 0.97) surpassed that achieved with patients' clinical data alone (cross-validation AUC 0.59) or prior studies with single biomarkers. Further, we analyzed novel proteins and identified fetuin-A as a promising candidate for early GDM prediction. A correlation analysis showed a moderate to strong correlation between multiple metabolites and proteins, suggesting a combined protein-metabolic analysis integrated with ML would enable a powerful screening platform for first trimester diagnosis. Our study underscores RS metabolic profiling as a cost-effective tool that can be integrated into the current clinical workflow for accurate risk stratification of GDM and to improve both maternal and neonatal outcomes.

Cellular and Molecular Pathophysiology of Gestational Diabetes

Gestational diabetes (GD) is a metabolic disorder characterized by glucose intolerance during pregnancy, significantly impacting maternal and fetal health. Its global prevalence is approximately 14%, with risk factors including obesity, family history of diabetes, advanced maternal age, and ethnicity, which are linked to cellular and molecular disruptions in glucose regulation and insulin resistance. GD is associated with short- and long-term complications for both the mother and the newborn. For mothers, GD increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and metabolic syndrome. In the offspring, exposure to GD in utero predisposes them to obesity, glucose intolerance, and metabolic disorders later in life. This review aims to elucidate the complex cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying GD to inform the development of effective therapeutic strategies. A systematic review was conducted using medical subject headings (MeSH) terms related to GD's cellular and molecular pathophysiology. Inclusion criteria encompassed original studies, systematic reviews, and meta-analyses focusing on GD's impact on maternal and fetal health, adhering to PRISMA guidelines. Data extraction captured study characteristics, maternal and fetal outcomes, key findings, and conclusions. GD disrupts insulin signaling pathways, leading to impaired glucose uptake and insulin resistance. Mitochondrial dysfunction reduces ATP production and increases reactive oxygen species, exacerbating oxidative stress. Hormonal influences, chronic inflammation, and dysregulation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway further impair insulin signaling. Gut microbiota alterations, gene expression, and epigenetic modifications play significant roles in GD. Ferroptosis and placental dysfunction primarily contribute to intrauterine growth restriction. Conversely, fetal macrosomia arises from maternal hyperglycemia and subsequent fetal hyperinsulinemia, resulting in excessive fetal growth. The chronic inflammatory state and oxidative stress associated with GD exacerbate these complications, creating a hostile intrauterine environment. GD's complex pathophysiology involves multiple disruptions in insulin signaling, mitochondrial function, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Effective management requires early detection, preventive strategies, and international collaboration to standardize care and improve outcomes for mothers and babies.

From Mother to Child: Epigenetic Signatures of Hyperglycemia and Obesity during Pregnancy

BACKGROUND

In utero exposure to maternal hyperglycemia and obesity can trigger detrimental effects in the newborn through epigenetic programming. We aimed to assess the DNA methylation levels in the promoters of MC4R and LPL genes from maternal blood, placenta, and buccal swab samples collected in children born to mothers with and without obesity and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM).

METHODS

A total of 101 Caucasian mother-infant pairs were included in this study. Sociodemographic characteristics, clinical parameters, physical activity, and adherence to the Mediterranean diet were evaluated in the third trimester of pregnancy. Clinical parameters of the newborns were recorded at birth.

RESULTS

A negative relationship between MC4R DNA methylation on the fetal side of the GDM placenta and birth weight (r = -0.630, p = 0.011) of newborns was found. MC4R DNA methylation level was lower in newborns of GDM women (CpG1: 2.8% ± 3.0%, CpG2: 3.8% ± 3.3%) as compared to those of mothers without GDM (CpG1: 6.9% ± 6.2%, CpG2: 6.8% ± 5.6%; p < 0.001 and p = 0.0033, respectively), and it was negatively correlated with weight (r = -0.229; p = 0.035), head circumference (r = -0.236; p = 0.030), and length (r = -0.240; p = 0.027) at birth. LPL DNA methylation was higher on the fetal side of the placenta in obese patients as compared to normal-weight patients (66.0% ± 14.4% vs. 55.7% ± 15.2%, p = 0.037), and it was associated with maternal total cholesterol (r = 0.770, p = 0.015) and LDL-c (r = 0.783, p = 0.012).

CONCLUSIONS

These results support the role of maternal MC4R and LPL methylation in fetal programming and in the future metabolic health of children.

Gestational Outcomes Related to the Occurrence of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is the main cause of hyperglycemia in pregnancy and is related to complications throughout the gestational and post-partum period.

OBJECTIVES

To analyze the pregnancy outcomes related to the occurrence of GDM in women and their offspring.

METHODS

Third-trimester pregnant women were interviewed and monitored until childbirth. The diagnosis of GDM, blood glucose ≥ 92 mg/dL, was defined by the criteria of the International Association of the Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG).

RESULTS

A total of 138 women participated, and there were 136 births (due to 2 fetal losses); 23 (16.7%) were diagnosed with GDM. The risk of complications during childbirth was higher among pregnant women with GDM (RR 3.40; 95%CI 1.65-7.00), as was the occurrence of cesarean birth (RR 1.9; 95%CI 1.46-2.59). The occurrence of preterm birth did not show a significant difference between GDM/non-GDM groups. There was a non-significant association in adjusted analyses of macrosomia (birth weight ≥ 4000 g) among newborns born to mothers with GDM (RR 1.27; 95%CI 0.67-2.38). For newborns born to pregnant women with GDM, there was a higher risk for the following outcomes: large for gestational age (LGA) (3.29 95%CI 1.62-6.64), low Apgar (4.98 95%CI 2.32-10.69), and birth asphyxia (9.51 95%CI 3.42-26.48).

CONCLUSIONS

The findings reinforce that GDM is an important risk factor for adverse pregnancy outcomes for women and their offspring.

Serial Diurnal Salivary Cortisol Profiles in 667 Pregnant Women-Association With Cardiometabolic Complications

CONTEXT

Maternal obesity, hypertensive pregnancy disorders, and gestational diabetes (GDM) are linked to an increased risk of negative offspring health outcomes. This association may be mediated by maternal hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis (HPA axis) activity, resulting in elevated maternal cortisol levels and fetal exposure, but evidence remains scarce.

OBJECTIVE

We (1) examined maternal diurnal cortisol profiles longitudinally across gestation, and (2) explored associations with maternal cardiometabolic complications.

METHODS

Women in the InTraUterine sampling in early pregnancy (ITU) study (n = 667) provided 7 salivary cortisol samples from awakening to bedtime up to 3 times during pregnancy (median gestational week 19.3, 25.7, and 38.1; n = 9356 samples). Changes in cortisol awakening response (CAR) and diurnal slope (indicative of HPA axis activity) and their associations with maternal body mass index (BMI), hypertensive pregnancy disorders and GDM were examined using linear mixed models.

RESULTS

The CAR declined in 60% to 67% of women, and the diurnal slope attenuated from early to late pregnancy (b = 0.006; P = .001). Higher BMI was associated with less decline in CAR (b = 0.031; P = .0004) and less attenuation in diurnal slope from early to late pregnancy (b = -0.001; P = .006). Hypertensive pregnancy disorders and GDM were not significantly associated with diurnal cortisol profiles.

CONCLUSION

The attenuation in CAR and diurnal slope support HPA axis hyporesponsivity during pregnancy. Less attenuation of both markers in women with a higher BMI may indicate reduced adaption of the HPA axis to pregnancy, presenting a mechanistic link to offspring health outcomes.

Implications of pregnancy on cardiometabolic disease risk: preeclampsia and gestational diabetes

Cardiometabolic disorders, such as obesity, insulin resistance, and hypertension, prior to and within pregnancy are increasing in prevalence worldwide. Pregnancy-associated cardiometabolic disease poses a great risk to the short- and long-term well-being of the mother and offspring. Hypertensive pregnancy, notably preeclampsia, as well as gestational diabetes are the major diseases of pregnancy growing in prevalence as a result of growing cardiometabolic disease prevalence. The mechanisms whereby obesity, diabetes, and other comorbidities lead to preeclampsia and gestational diabetes are incompletely understood and continually evolving in the literature. In addition, novel therapeutic avenues are currently being explored in these patients to offset cardiometabolic-induced adverse pregnancy outcomes in preeclamptic and gestational diabetes pregnancies. In this review, we discuss the emerging pathophysiological mechanisms of preeclampsia and gestational diabetes in the context of cardiometabolic risk as well as the most recent preclinical and clinical updates in the pathogenesis and treatment of these conditions.

Maternal Malnutrition and Elevated Disease Risk in Offspring

US populations have seen dramatic increases in the prevalence of chronic disease over the past three generations. Rapid increases in type 2 diabetes and obesity have occurred in all the states but have been particularly striking in the Deep South. These increases have contributed to decreases in life expectancy and to painful elevations in health care costs. The causes of worsening population health are complex and incompletely understood. However, there is strong evidence that vulnerability to chronic conditions is determined in early life. Most chronic diseases are developmentally driven. There are specific stressors experienced in early life that influence epigenetic and structural changes during development. These include malnutrition, severe levels of social stress, toxic chemicals, and low oxygen levels. Most US populations have experienced a decrease in the quality of the food they consume as industrial foods have replaced garden-grown foods. Thus, the consumption of too few nutrients before and during pregnancy and during lactation influences the growth of the placenta and fetal organs and their level of resilience when faced with stresses in postnatal life and particularly as adults. Animal studies have shown that the effects of poor nutrition can be passed on to future generations. The most powerful way that the current epidemics of obesity and insulin resistance can be reversed is by providing key nutrients to prospective mothers and those already pregnant.

Intrauterine hyperglycemia induces SIRT3-mediated mitochondrial dysfunction: the fetal origin pathogenesis of precocious osteoarthritis

OBJECTIVE

Diabetes and other metabolic and inflammatory comorbidities are highly associated with osteoarthritis (OA). However, whether early-life hyperglycemia exposure affects susceptibility to long-term OA is still unknown. The purpose of this study was to explore the fetal origins of OA and provide insights into early-life safeguarding for individual health.

METHOD

This study utilized streptozotocin to induce intrauterine hyperglycemia and performed destabilization of the medial meniscus surgery on the knee joints of the offspring mice to induce accelerated OA. Cartilage degeneration-related markers, as well as the expression levels of mitochondrial respiratory chain complexes and mitophagy genes in the adult offspring mice, were investigated. In vitro, mitochondrial function and mitophagy of chondrocyte C28/I2 cells stimulated under high glucose conditions were also evaluated. The methylation levels of the sirt3 gene promoter region in the articular cartilage of intrauterine hyperglycemia-exposed offspring mice were further analyzed.

RESULTS

In this study, we found that the intrauterine hyperglycemic environment could lead to an increase in individual susceptibility to OA in late adulthood, mainly due to persistently low levels of Sirt3 expression. Downregulation of Sirt3 causes impaired mitophagy in chondrocytes and abnormal mitochondrial respiratory function due to a failure to clear aged and damaged mitochondria in a timely manner. Overexpressing Sirt3 at the cellular level or using Sirt3 agonists like Honokiol in mouse models can partially rescue mitophagy disorders caused by the hyperglycemic environment and thus alleviate the progression of OA.

CONCLUSION

Our study revealed a significantly increased susceptibility to OA in the gestational diabetes mellitus offspring, which is partly attributed to exposure to adverse factors in utero and ultimately to the onset of disease via epigenetic modulation.

Long-term risk of overweight in offspring of Chinese women with gestational diabetes defined by IADPSG's but not by WHO's criteria

AIMS

To examine long-term risk of overweight in offspring of women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) defined by the International Association of Diabetes and Pregnancy Study Group (IADPSG)'s criteria but not by the 1999 World Health Organization (WHO)'s criteria.

METHODS

We followed up 1681 mother-child pairs for 8 years in Tianjin, China. Overweight in children aged 1-5 and 6-8 were respectively defined as body mass index-for-age and -sex above the 2 z-score and 1 z-score curves of the WHO's child growth standards. Logistic regression was performed to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of hyperglycemia indices at oral glucose tolerance test and GDMs defined by different criteria for offspring overweight at different ages.

RESULTS

Offspring of women with fasting plasma glucose ≥5.1 mmol/L were at increased risk of overweight at 6-8 years old (OR:1.45, 95% CI: 1.09-1.93). GDM defined by the IADPSG's criteria only was associated with increased risk of childhood overweight at 6-8 years old (1.65, 1.13-2.40), as compared with non-GDM by either of the two sets of criteria.

CONCLUSIONS

Newly defined GDM by the IADPSG's criteria increased the risk of offspring overweight aged 6-8 years.

Association of DNA Methylation with Infant Birth Weight in Women with Gestational Diabetes

Offspring exposed to gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) exhibit greater adiposity at birth. This early-life phenotype may increase offspring risk of developing obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease later in life. Infants born to women with GDM have a dysregulation of several hormones, cytokines, and growth factors related to fetal fat mass growth. One of the molecular mechanisms of GDM influencing these factors is epigenetic alterations, such as DNA methylation (DNAm). This review will examine the role of DNAm as a potential biomarker for monitoring fetal growth during pregnancy in women with GDM. This information is relevant since it may provide useful new biomarkers for the diagnosis, prognosis, and treatment of fetal growth and its later-life health consequences.

The role of hsa_circ_0042260/miR-4782-3p/LAPTM4A axis in gestational diabetes mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic condition during pregnancy, posing risks to both mother and fetus. CircRNAs have emerged as important players in various diseases, including GDM. We aimed to investigate the role of newly discovered circRNA, hsa_circ_0042260, in GDM pathogenesis. Using GSE194119 dataset, hsa_circ_0042260 was identified and its expression in plasma, placenta, and HG-stimulated HK-2 cells was examined. Silencing hsa_circ_0042260 in HK-2 cells assessed its impact on cell viability, apoptosis, and inflammation. Bioinformatics analysis revealed downstream targets of hsa_circ_0042260, namely miR-4782-3p and LAPTM4A. The interaction between hsa_circ_0042260, miR-4782-3p, and LAPTM4A was validated through various assays. hsa_circ_0042260 was upregulated in plasma from GDM patients and HG-stimulated HK-2 cells. Silencing hsa_circ_0042260 improved cell viability, suppressed apoptosis and inflammation. Hsa_circ_0042260 interacted with miR-4782-3p, which exhibited low expression in GDM patient plasma and HG-stimulated cells. MiR-4782-3p targeted LAPTM4A, confirmed by additional assays. LAPTM4A expression increased in GDM patient plasma and HG-induced HK-2 cells following hsa_circ_0042260 knockdown or miR-4782-3p overexpression. In rescue assays, inhibition of miR-4782-3p or overexpression of LAPTM4A counteracted the effects of hsa_circ_0042260 downregulation on cell viability, apoptosis, and inflammation. In conclusion, the hsa_circ_0042260/miR-4782-3p/LAPTM4A axis plays a role in regulating GDM progression in HG-stimulated HK-2 cells.

Study on the regulation of trophoblast activity by abnormally expressed hsa_circ_0024838/miR-543/HIF1A in patients with gestational diabetes mellitus

INTRODUCTION

This study aimed to screen circRNAs involved in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM)-related macrosomia. One differentially expressed circRNA (DEC), hsa_circ_0024838, was further tested for its potential role and mechanism in trophoblasts.

METHODS

DECs in GDM were selected through GSE182737 and GSE194119. The targets were predicted for DECs and microRNAs (miRNAs), to complete the construction of the circRNA-miRNA-gene network. Functional annotation and related biological pathway enrichment analysis were performed on the target genes of miRNAs in the network. Subsequently, the expression levels of hsa_circ_0024838, miR-543, and HIF1A mRNA were identified by real-time quantitative real-time PCR (RT-qPCR) in GDM patients. Trophoblast activity was assessed via CCK-8 assay, apoptosis assay, and Matrigel invasion assay. Finally, interactions between miR-543 and either hsa_circ_0024838 or HIF1A were confirmed using dual-luciferase reporter assays.

RESULTS

A GDM-related circRNA-miRNA-genes interaction network was constructed, consisting of 35 circRNAs, 46 miRNAs, and 122 target genes. Functional enrichment revealed that the enriched pathways were involved in GDM. Hsa_circ_0024838 and HIF1A mRNA expression levels were upregulated in GDM, while miR-543 expression levels were downregulated. A significant positive correlation between hsa_circ_0024838 and newborn weight was observed. Both hsa_circ_0024838 and HIF1A possessed binding sites for miR-543. Overexpressing hsa_circ_0024838 in high-glucose (HG)-cultured trophoblasts can partially reverse HG-induced reduction in trophoblast cell proliferation/migration and increase apoptosis. But this reversal can be negated by co-transfection with miR-543 mimics. The effects of miR-543 can be counteracted by HIF1A.

DISCUSSION

Hsa_circ_0024838 can regulate the expression of HIF1A by interacting with miR-543. This regulates the HIF1A signaling pathway and enhance vitality in trophoblast cells.

Transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation may benefit from the addition of N-acetylcysteine to facilitate motor learning in infants of diabetic mothers failing oral feeds

Objective

This study aims to determine if pretreating with enteral N-acetylcysteine (NAC) improves CNS oxidative stress and facilitates improvement in oromotor skills during transcutaneous auricular nerve stimulation (taVNS) paired with oral feedings in infants of diabetic mothers (IDMs) who are failing oral feeds.

Methods

We treated 10 IDMs who were gastrostomy tube candidates in an open-label trial of NAC and taVNS paired with oral feeding. NAC (75 or 100 mg/kg/dose) was given by nasogastric (NG) administration every 6 h for 4 days, then combined with taVNS paired with 2 daily feeds for another 14 days. NAC pharmacokinetic (PK) parameters were determined from plasma concentrations at baseline and at steady state on day 4 of treatment in conjunction with magnetic resonance spectroscopic (MRS) quantification of CNS glutathione (GSH) as a marker of oxidative stress. We compared increases in oral feeding volumes before and during taVNS treatment and with a prior cohort of 12 IDMs who largely failed to achieve full oral feeds with taVNS alone.

Results

NAC 100 mg/kg/dose every 6 h NG resulted in plasma [NAC] that increased [GSH] in the basal ganglia with a mean of 0.13 ± 0.08 mM (p = 0.01, compared to baseline). Mean daily feeding volumes increased over 14 days of NAC + taVNS compared to the 14 days before treatment and compared to the prior cohort of 12 IDMs treated with taVNS alone. Seven IDMs reached full oral feeds sufficient for discharge, while three continued to have inadequate intake.

Conclusion

In IDM failing oral feeds, NAC 100 mg/kg/dose every 6 h NG for 4 days before and during taVNS paired with oral feeding increased CNS GSH, potentially mitigating oxidative stress, and was associated with improving functional feeding outcomes compared to taVNS alone in a prior cohort. This represents a novel approach to neuromodulation and supports the concept that mitigation of ongoing oxidative stress may increase response to taVNS paired with a motor task.

Genetic and inflammatory factors underlying gestational diabetes mellitus: a review

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) poses a significant global health concern, impacting both maternal and fetal well-being. Early detection and treatment are imperative to mitigate adverse outcomes during pregnancy. This review delves into the pivotal role of insulin function and the influence of genetic variants, including SLC30A8, CDKAL1, TCF7L2, IRS1, and GCK, in GDM development. These genetic variations affect beta-cell function and insulin activity in crucial tissues, such as muscle, disrupting glucose regulation during pregnancy. We propose a hypothesis that this variation may disrupt zinc transport, consequently impairing insulin production and secretion, thereby contributing to GDM onset. Furthermore, we discussed the involvement of inflammatory pathways, such as TNF-alpha and IL-6, in predisposing individuals to GDM. Genetic modulation of these pathways may exacerbate glucose metabolism dysregulation observed in GDM patients. We also discussed how GDM affects cardiovascular disease (CVD) through a direct correlation between pregnancy and cardiometabolic function, increasing atherosclerosis, decreased vascular function, dyslipidemia, and hypertension in women with GDM history. However, further research is imperative to unravel the intricate interplay between inflammatory pathways, genetics, and GDM. This understanding is pivotal for devising targeted gene therapies and pharmacological interventions to rectify genetic variations in SLC30A8, CDKAL1, TCF7L2, IRS1, GCK, and other pertinent genes. Ultimately, this review offers insights into the pathophysiological mechanisms of GDM, providing a foundation for developing strategies to mitigate its impact.

Circadian Gene Variants: Effects in Overweight and Obese Pregnant Women

Obesity and overweight are common and complex conditions influenced by multiple genetic and environmental factors. Several genetic variants located in the genes involved in clock systems and fat taste perception can affect metabolic health. In particular, the polymorphisms in CLOCK and BMAL1 genes were reported to be significantly related to cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, sleep reduction, and evening preference. Moreover, genetic variants in the CD36 gene have been shown to be involved in lipid metabolism, regulation of fat intake, and body weight regulation. The aim of this study is to evaluate, for the first time, the association between variants in some candidate genes (namely, BMAL1 rs7950226 (G>A), CLOCK rs1801260 (A>G), CLOCK rs4864548 (G>A), CLOCK rs3736544 (G>A), CD36 rs1984112 (A>G), CD36 rs1761667 (G>A)) and overweight/obesity (OB) in pregnant women. A total of 163 normal-weight (NW) and 128 OB participants were included. A significant correlation was observed between A-allele in CLOCK rs4864548 and an increased risk of obesity (OR: 1.97; 95% CI 1.22-3.10, p = 0.005). In addition, we found that subjects carrying the haplotype of rs1801260-A, rs4864548-A, and rs3736544-G are likely to be overweight or obese (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.03-2.09, p = 0.030), compared with those with other haplotypes. Moreover, a significant relation was observed between third-trimester lipid parameters and genetic variants-namely, CD36 rs1984112, CD36 rs1761667, BMAL1 rs7950226, and CLOCK rs1801260. A multivariate logistic regression model revealed that CLOCK rs4864548 A-allele carriage was a strong risk factor for obesity (OR 2.05, 95% CI 1.07-3.93, p = 0.029); on the other hand, greater adherence to Mediterranean diet (OR 0.80, 95% CI 0.65-0.98, p = 0.038) and higher HDL levels (OR 0.96, 95% CI 0.94-0.99, p = 0.021) were related to a reduced risk of obesity. Interestingly, an association between maternal CLOCK rs4864548 and neonatal birthweight was detected (p = 0.025). These data suggest a potential role of the polymorphisms in clock systems and in fat taste perception in both susceptibility to overweight/obesity and influencing the related metabolic traits in pregnant women.

Interactive effects of gestational diabetes and high pre-pregnancy body mass index on adverse growth patterns of offspring

AIMS

To examine the independent and interactive effects of maternal gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and high pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) on the risk of offspring adverse growth patterns.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

One thousand six hundred and eighty one mother-child pairs were followed for 8 years in Tianjin, China. Group-based trajectory modelling was used to identify offspring growth patterns. Logistic regression was performed to obtain odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of GDM and high pre-pregnancy BMI for offspring adverse growth patterns. Restricted cubic spline was used to identify cut-off points. Additive interactions and multiplicative interactions were used to test interactive effects between GDM and high pre-pregnancy BMI for adverse growth patterns.

RESULTS

Four distinct growth patterns were identified in offspring, including normal growth pattern, persistent lean growth pattern, late obesity growth pattern (LOGP), and persistent obesity growth pattern (POGP). Maternal high pre-pregnancy BMI was associated with LOGP and POGP (adjusted OR, 95% CI: 2.38, 1.74-3.25 & 4.92, 2.26-10.73). GDM greatly enhanced the adjusted OR of high pre-pregnancy BMI for LOGP up to 3.48 (95% CI: 2.25-5.38). Additive interactions and multiplicative interactions between both risk factors were significant for LOGP but not for POGP.

CONCLUSIONS

Maternal high pre-pregnancy BMI was associated with increased risk of LOGP and POGP, whereas GDM greatly enhanced the risk of high pre-pregnancy BMI for LOGP.

Metabolic memory: mechanisms and diseases

Metabolic diseases and their complications impose health and economic burdens worldwide. Evidence from past experimental studies and clinical trials suggests our body may have the ability to remember the past metabolic environment, such as hyperglycemia or hyperlipidemia, thus leading to chronic inflammatory disorders and other diseases even after the elimination of these metabolic environments. The long-term effects of that aberrant metabolism on the body have been summarized as metabolic memory and are found to assume a crucial role in states of health and disease. Multiple molecular mechanisms collectively participate in metabolic memory management, resulting in different cellular alterations as well as tissue and organ dysfunctions, culminating in disease progression and even affecting offspring. The elucidation and expansion of the concept of metabolic memory provides more comprehensive insight into pathogenic mechanisms underlying metabolic diseases and complications and promises to be a new target in disease detection and management. Here, we retrace the history of relevant research on metabolic memory and summarize its salient characteristics. We provide a detailed discussion of the mechanisms by which metabolic memory may be involved in disease development at molecular, cellular, and organ levels, with emphasis on the impact of epigenetic modulations. Finally, we present some of the pivotal findings arguing in favor of targeting metabolic memory to develop therapeutic strategies for metabolic diseases and provide the latest reflections on the consequences of metabolic memory as well as their implications for human health and diseases.

Relationships between triglyceride-glucose index and incident gestational diabetes mellitus: a prospective cohort study of a Korean population using publicly available data

BACKGROUND

The connection between the triglyceride-glucose index (TyG index) and gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is currently debated. Our study aimed to investigate the connection between the TyG index and GDM within the Korean population.

METHODS

Using publically accessible data in Korea, we performed a secondary study on a sample of 589 pregnant women who were carrying a single fetus. The analysis employed a binary logistic regression model, some sensitivity analyses, and subgroup analysis to investigate the association between the TyG index and the occurrence of GDM. To assess the TyG index's potential to predict GDM, a receiver operating characteristic (ROC) study was also carried out.

RESULTS

The mean age of the pregnant women was 32.065 ± 3.798 years old, while the mean TyG index was 8.352 ± 0.400. The prevalence rate of GDM was found to be 6.112%. Upon adjusting for potential confounding variables, a positive association was detected between the TyG index and incident GDM (OR = 12.923, 95%CI: 3.581-46.632, p = 0.00009). The validity of this connection was further confirmed by subgroup analysis and sensitivity analyses. With an area under the ROC curve of 0.807 (95%CI: 0.734-0.879), the TyG index showed strong predictive power for GDM. The TyG index's ideal cutoff value for detecting GDM was found to be 8.632, with a sensitivity of 78.7% and a specificity of 72.2%.

CONCLUSION

The findings of our study provide evidence that an increased TyG index is significantly associated with the occurrence of GDM. Utilizing the TyG index during the 10-14 week gestational period may be a valuable tool in identifying pregnant individuals at a heightened risk for developing GDM. Early detection enables timely and efficacious interventions, thereby enhancing the prognosis of affected individuals.

Aberrant NK cell profile in gestational diabetes mellitus with fetal growth restriction

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a gestational disorder characterized by hyperglycemia, that can lead to dysfunction of diverse cells in the body, especially the immune cells. It has been reported that immune cells, specifically natural killer (NK) cells, play a crucial role in normal pregnancy. However, it remains unknown how hyperglycemia affects NK cell dysfunction thus participates in the development of GDM. In this experiment, GDM mice were induced by an intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (STZ) after pregnancy and it has been found that the intrauterine growth restriction occurred in mice with STZ-induced GDM, accompanied by the changed proportion and function of NK cells. The percentage of cytotoxic CD27-CD11b+ NK cells was significantly increased, while the proportion of nourished CD27-CD11b- NK cells was significantly reduced in the decidua of GDM mice. Likewise, the same trend appeared in the peripheral blood NK cell subsets of GDM patients. What's more, after intrauterine reinfusion of NK cells to GDM mice, the fetal growth restriction was alleviated and the proportion of NK cells was restored. Our findings provide a theoretical and experimental basis for further exploring the pathogenesis of GDM.

Diabetes Mellitus and Pregnancy: An Insight into the Effects on the Epigenome

Worldwide, diabetes mellitus represents a growing health problem. If it occurs during pregnancy, it can increase the risk of various abnormalities in early and advanced life stages of exposed individuals due to fetal programming occurring in utero. Studies have determined that maternal conditions interfere with the genotypes and phenotypes of offspring. Researchers are now uncovering the mechanisms by which epigenetic alterations caused by diabetes affect the expression of genes and, therefore, the development of various diseases. Among the numerous possible epigenetic changes in this regard, the most studied to date are DNA methylation and hydroxymethylation, as well as histone acetylation and methylation. This review article addresses critical findings in epigenetic studies involving diabetes mellitus, including variations reported in the expression of specific genes and their transgenerational effects.

Establishment and validation of a prediction model for gestational diabetes

AIM

To develop a visual prediction model for gestational diabetes (GD) in pregnant women and to establish an effective and practical tool for clinical application.

METHODS

To establish a prediction model, the modelling set included 1756 women enrolled in the Zunyi birth cohort, the internal validation set included 1234 enrolled women, and pregnant women in the Wuhan cohort were included in the external validation set. We established a demographic-lifestyle factor model (DLFM) and a demographic-lifestyle-environmental pollution factor model (DLEFM) based on whether the women were exposed to environmental pollutants. The least absolute shrinkage and selection lasso-logistic regression analyses were used to identify the independent predictors of GD and construct a nomogram for predicting its occurrence.

RESULTS

The DLEFM regression analysis showed that a family history of diabetes (odd ratio [OR] 2.28; 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05-4.71), a history of GD in pregnant women (OR 4.22; 95% CI 1.89-9.41), being overweight or obese before pregnancy (OR 1.71; 95% CI 1.27-2.29), a history of hypertension (OR 2.61; 95% CI 1.41-4.72), sedentary time (h/day) (OR 1.16; 95% CI 1.08-1.24), monobenzyl phthalate (OR 1.95; 95% CI 1.45-2.67) and Q4 mono-ethyl phthalate concentration (OR 1.85; 95% CI 1.26-2.73) were independent predictors. The area under the receiver operating curves for the internal validation of the DLEFM and the DLFM constructed using these seven factors was 0.827 and 0.783, respectively. The calibration curve of the DLEFM was close to the diagonal line. The DLEFM was thus the more optimal model, and the one which we chose.

CONCLUSIONS

A nomogram based on preconception factors was constructed to predict the occurrence of GD in the second and third trimesters. It provided an effective tool for the early prediction and timely management of GD.

The Effect of Maternal Diet and Physical Activity on the Epigenome of the Offspring

The aim of this review was to examine the current literature regarding the effect of maternal lifestyle interventions (i.e., diet and physical activity) on the epigenome of the offspring. PubMed, Scopus and Cochrane-CENTRAL were screened until 8 July 2023. Only randomized controlled trials (RCTs) where a lifestyle intervention was compared to no intervention (standard care) were included. Outcome variables included DNA methylation, miRNA expression, and histone modifications. A qualitative approach was used for the consideration of the studies' results. Seven studies and 1765 mother-child pairs were assessed. The most common types of intervention were dietary advice, physical activity, and following a specific diet (olive oil). The included studies correlated the lifestyle and physical activity intervention in pregnancy to genome-wide or gene-specific differential methylation and miRNA expression in the cord blood or the placenta. An intervention of diet and physical activity in pregnancy was found to be associated with slight changes in the epigenome (DNA methylation and miRNA expression) in fetal tissues. The regions involved were related to adiposity, metabolic processes, type 2 diabetes, birth weight, or growth. However, not all studies showed significant differences in DNA methylation. Further studies with similar parameters are needed to have robust and comparable results and determine the biological role of such modifications.

Maternal inulin alleviates high-fat diet-induced lipid disorder in offspring by epigenetically modulating hypothalamus feeding circuit-related genes

Increasing evidence supports the existence of fetal-originated adult diseases. Recent research indicates that the intrauterine environment affects the fetal hypothalamic energy intake center. Inulin is a probiotic that can moderate metabolic disorders, but whether maternal inulin intervention confers long-term metabolic benefits to lipid metabolism in offspring in their adult lives and the mechanism involved are unknown. Here, we used a maternal overnutrition model that was induced by excess energy intake before and during pregnancy and lactation and maternal inulin intervention was performed during pregnancy and lactation. The hypothalamic genome methylation in offspring was analyzed using a methylation array. The results showed that maternal inulin treatment modified the maternal high-fat diet (HFD)-induced increases in body weight, adipose tissue weight, and serum insulin and leptin levels and decreases in serum adiponectin levels. Maternal inulin intervention regulated the impairments in hypothalamic leptin resistance, induced the methylation of Socs3, Npy, and Il6, and inhibited the methylation of Lepr in the hypothalamus of offspring. In conclusion, maternal inulin intervention modifies offspring lipid metabolism, and the underlying mechanism involves the methylation of genes in the hypothalamus feeding circuit.

Gestational diabetes mellitus: genetic factors, epigenetic alterations, and microbial composition

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a common metabolic disorder, usually diagnosed during the third trimester of pregnancy that usually disappears after delivery. In GDM, the excess of glucose, fatty acids, and amino acids results in foetuses large for gestational age. Hyperglycaemia and insulin resistance accelerate the metabolism, raising the oxygen demand, and creating chronic hypoxia and inflammation. Women who experienced GDM and their offspring are at risk of developing type-2 diabetes, obesity, and other metabolic or cardiovascular conditions later in life. Genetic factors may predispose the development of GDM; however, they do not account for all GDM cases; lifestyle and diet also play important roles in GDM development by modulating epigenetic signatures and the body's microbial composition; therefore, this is a condition with a complex, multifactorial aetiology. In this context, we revised published reports describing GDM-associated single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), DNA methylation and microRNA expression in different tissues (such as placenta, umbilical cord, adipose tissue, and peripheral blood), and microbial composition in the gut, oral cavity, and vagina from pregnant women with GDM, as well as the bacterial composition of the offspring. Altogether, these reports indicate that a number of SNPs are associated to GDM phenotypes and may predispose the development of the disease. However, extrinsic factors (lifestyle, nutrition) modulate, through epigenetic mechanisms, the risk of developing the disease, and some association exists between the microbial composition with GDM in an organ-specific manner. Genes, epigenetic signatures, and microbiota could be transferred to the offspring, increasing the possibility of developing chronic degenerative conditions through postnatal life.

Leptin resistance in children with in utero exposure to maternal obesity and gestational diabetes

BACKGROUND

Leptin resistance occurs with obesity, but it is unknown if individuals at risk for obesity develop leptin resistance prior to obesity.

OBJECTIVE

Investigate whether leptin resistance is independent of weight status in children at risk for obesity due to intrauterine exposure to maternal obesity or gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

METHODS

Mother-child dyads (N = 179) were grouped by maternal pregnancy weight and GDM status: (1) normal weight, no GDM; (2) overweight/obesity, no GDM; (3) overweight/obesity with GDM. Children (4-10 years) were further stratified by current body mass index (BMI) <85th or ≥85th percentile. Leptin resistance of children and mothers was calculated as fasting leptin/fat mass index. Two-way ANOVA was used to assess whether leptin concentrations and leptin resistance differed by current weight status or in utero exposure group, after adjusting for race, sex and Tanner stage.

RESULTS

Children with a BMI ≥85th percentile had more leptin resistance than those with a BMI <85th percentile (p < 0.001), but leptin resistance did not differ by in utero exposure. Similarly, leptin resistance in women was associated with weight status and not prior GDM.

CONCLUSIONS

Results suggest that leptin concentrations are associated with obesity but not risk for obesity based on in utero exposure to maternal obesity or GDM.

Advanced maternal age (AMA) and 75 g oGTT glucose levels are pedictors for insulin therapy in women with gestational diabetes (GDM)

OBJECTIVES

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy that is strongly associated with adverse fetal and maternal outcomes. Advanced maternal age (≥35 years) is a known risk factor for GDM. Studies advocate that GDM comprises distinctive metabolic entities, suggesting an individualized approach based on early pregnancy characteristics (such as 75 g oGTT values, maternal age, obstetric history).

METHODS

The oGTT blood glucose levels of 1,664 women were categorized into isolated fasting hyperglycemia (GDM-IFH), isolated postprandial hyperglycemia (GDM-IPH) and combined hyperglycemia (GDM-CH), using the levels of the fasting, 1 h and 2 h values after glucose application. These three subtypes were analysed regarding baseline characteristics as well as fetal and maternal outcome in the context of maternal age.

RESULTS

This analysis reveals that the 75 g oGTT levels and maternal age can distinguish metabolic phenotypes in women with GDM. The overall rate of insulin therapy required was higher in women from the GDM-CH group and increased with maternal age (31.7 %, 38.2 %, <35 years, ≥35-39 years respectively, vs. total insulin rate 22.3 %, p-value <0.001). Women ≥35 years displayed a significantly higher caesarean delivery (CD) rate (<35 years 34.6 %, 38.4 %, 41.1 % vs. ≥35 years 54.8 %, 47.6 %, 46.5 %, GDM-IFH, GDM-IPH, GDM-CH respectively, p-value <0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Women with fasting hyperglycemia, especially those with combined hyperglycemia and advanced maternal age (AMA) display a higher risk for unfavorable perinatal outcome. A categorization based on oGTT values and maternal age, as well as other characteristics can facilitate a basis for clinical risk stratification. Women at risk should receive an individualized and intensified perinatal care as well as interventional therapies.

Genetic and Epigenetic Factors in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Pathology

Gestational diabetes (GDM) is the carbohydrate intolerance occurring during pregnancy. The risk factors of GDM include obesity, advanced maternal age, polycystic ovary syndrome, multigravidity, a sedentary lifestyle, and pre-existing hypertension. Additionally, complex genetic and epigenetic processes are also believed to play a crucial role in the development of GDM. In this narrative review, we discuss the role of genetic and epigenetic factors in gestational diabetes mellitus pathogenesis.

Dietary flavonoids prevent diabetes through epigenetic regulation: advance and challenge

The pathophysiology of diabetes has been studied extensively in various countries, but effective prevention and treatment methods are still insufficient. In recent years, epigenetics has received increasing attention from researchers in exploring the etiology and treatment of diabetes. DNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs play critical roles in the occurrence, maintenance, and progression of diabetes and its complications. Therefore, preventing or reversing the epigenetic alterations that occur during the development of diabetes may reduce the individual and societal burden of the disease. Dietary flavonoids serve as natural epigenetic modulators for the discovery of biomarkers for diabetes prevention and the development of alternative therapies. However, there is limited knowledge about the potential beneficial effects of flavonoids on the epigenetics of diabetes. In this review, the multidimensional epigenetic effects of different flavonoid subtypes in diabetes were summarized. Furthermore, it was discussed that parental flavonoid diets might reduce diabetes incidence in offspring, which represent a promising opportunity to prevent diabetes in the future. Future work will depend on exploring anti-diabetic effects of different flavonoids with different epigenetic regulation mechanisms and clinical trials.Highlights• "Epigenetic therapy" could reduce the burden of diabetic patients• "Epigenetic diet" ameliorates diabetes• Targeting epigenetic regulations by dietary flavonoids in the diabetes prevention• Dietary flavonoids prevent diabetes via transgenerational epigenetic inheritance.

The Association Between the Imbalance of Single-Carbon Nutrients in Early Pregnancy and Gestational Diabetes Mellitus Risk is Influenced by Serum Selenium Status: A Cohort Study

Purpose

The role of imbalanced one-carbon nutrients in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) risk has garnered significant interest, yet existing studies yield inconsistent results. Our objective was to assess whether the association between an unbalanced ratio of folate to vitamin B12 and GDM risk is influenced by the status of other micronutrients.

Methods

This cohort study included 366 singleton-pregnancy Han women enrolled at the Shunyi District Maternal and Child Health Hospital in Beijing, China. During the first trimester of pregnancy, we measured red blood cell (RBC) folate, serum levels of vitamin B12, vitamin D, and selenium. We examined the association between the imbalanced status of RBC folate and vitamin B12 and GDM risk using logistic regression, stratified by serum selenium or vitamin D status.

Results

Among the 366 women, 67 (18.3%) were diagnosed with GDM, 201 (54.9%) had vitamin D deficiency, and 245 (66.9%) had selenium deficiency. Overall, women with higher RBC folate/vitamin B12 ratios did not exhibit a significantly higher risk of GDM compared to those in reference tertile (all P > 0.05). Subsequently, we divided women into deficient and non-deficient groups based on serum selenium or vitamin D levels. In women with selenium deficiency, those in the highest tertile of the RBC folate/vitamin B12 ratio had the highest odds of GDM [OR: 3.40 (1.16-9.97), P=0.026] after adjusting for covariates. However, similar findings were not observed in pregnancies with normal selenium status. Irrespective of vitamin D status, women with higher RBC folate/vitamin B12 ratios did not exhibit a significantly increased risk of GDM.

Conclusion

Micronutrient deficiencies are common in early pregnancy. Women with a higher folate/vitamin B12 ratio coupled with selenium deficiency in early pregnancy have a higher GDM risk. These findings underscore the importance of micronutrient assessment in early pregnancy and subsequent interventions for micronutrient deficiencies.

Effects of a low glycemic index or low glycemic load diet on pregnant women at high risk of gestational diabetes: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials

AIMS

To evaluate the effect of low glycemic index or low glycemic load diets on maternal and neonatal outcomes at high risk of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

DATA SYNTHESIS

Several databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Embase, OVID, Clinical Trials. gov, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Biomedical Database, and Wanfang Database) were searched from January 1990 to January 2022 (updated to November 2022). Randomized controlled trials of low glycemic index diets interventions for women at high risk of GDM were included. From 2131 articles initially were screened, after eliminating duplicates, 1749 titles and abstracts were analyzed. 71 documents that met the inclusion criteria were selected and 3 documents were obtained through searching the reference lists. After reading the full text, 10 studies were retained. Two authors evaluated the studies, extracted data and conducted quality assessment independently. A total of 10 studies with 2304 patients met the inclusion criteria. Compared with the control group, a low glycemic index diet could control the range of weight gain (WMD -1.01, 95% CI -1.41 to -0.61), decrease the incidence of excessive weight gain (OR 0.69, 95% CI 0.54-0.87), lessen the incidence of large-for-gestational-age infants (OR 0.32, 95% CI 0.16-0.62) and reduce the incidence of preterm infants (OR 0.45, 95% CI 0.29-0.71).

CONCLUSION

A low glycemic index or low glycemic load diet could control maternal weight gain, reduce the incidence of excessive weight gain, and decrease the incidence of large-for-gestational-age infants and preterm infants in group with high risk of GDM.

PROSPERO

CRD42022322697.

The Mother-Child Dyad Adipokine Pattern: A Review of Current Knowledge

An important role in the network of interconnections between the mother and child is played by adipokines, which are adipose tissue hormones engaged in the regulation of metabolism. Alternations of maternal adipokines translate to the worsening of maternal insulin resistance as well as metabolic stress, altered placenta functions, and fetal development, which finally contribute to long-term metabolic unfavorable conditions. This paper is the first to summarize the current state of knowledge concerning the concentrations of individual adipokines in different biological fluids of maternal and cord plasma, newborn/infant plasma, milk, and the placenta, where it highlights the impact of adverse perinatal risk factors, including gestational diabetes mellitus, preeclampsia, intrauterine growth restriction, preterm delivery, and maternal obesity on the adipokine patterns in maternal-infant dyads. The importance of adipokine measurement and relationships in biological fluids during pregnancy and lactation is crucial for public health in the area of prevention of most diet-related metabolic diseases. The review highlights the huge knowledge gap in the field of hormones participating in the energy homeostasis and metabolic pathways during perinatal and postnatal periods in the mother-child dyad. An in-depth characterization is needed to confirm if the adverse outcomes of early developmental programming might be modulated via maternal lifestyle intervention.

Risk factors for adverse pregnancy outcomes in Chinese women: a meta-analysis

Objective

This study examined the associated risk factors of adverse pregnancy outcomes among Chinese females and furnished some fundamental principles and recommendations for enhanced prevention of adverse pregnancy and preservation of women's well-being.

Methods

A systematic review was conducted by retrieving the MEDLINE (The National Library of Medicine), Embase, PubMed, and Cochrane databases. The relevant risk factors for adverse pregnancy in Chinese women were retrieved from May 2017 to April 2023. Use Review Manager for data analysis. Calculate the merge effect based on data attributes using mean difference (MD) or odds ratio (or) and 95% confidence interval (CI). The meta-analysis was registered at INPLASY (International Platform of Registered Systematic Review and Meta-analysis Protocols, 202340090).

Results

A total of 15 articles were included, with a total of 946,818 Chinese pregnant women. Moreover, all the literature was scored by the NOS (Newcastle-Ottawa Scale), and all literatures were ≥7 points, which were evaluated as high quality. There are seven risk factors related to adverse pregnancy in Chinese women: parity, pregnancy frequency, education level, smoking, gestational diabetes, gestational weeks, and age. Moreover, the main risk factors for adverse pregnancy are pregnancy frequency, education level, gestational diabetes mellitus, and age.

Conclusion

The pregnancy frequency, education level, gestational diabetes mellitus, and age were significantly associated with the adverse pregnancy in Chinese women, whereas gestational weeks, smoking, and parity had no significant effect on adverse pregnancy.

Doppler Indices of the Uterine, Umbilical and Fetal Middle Cerebral Artery in Diabetic versus Non-Diabetic Pregnancy: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background and Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the differences in Doppler indices of the uterine (Ut), umbilical (UA), and middle cerebral artery (MCA) in diabetic versus non-diabetic pregnancies by conducting a comprehensive systematic review of the literature with a meta-analysis. Materials and Methods: PubMed, Web of Science, and SCOPUS were searched for studies that measured the pulsatility index (PI), resistance index (RI), and systolic/diastolic ratio index (S/D ratio) of the umbilical artery, middle cerebral artery, and uterine artery in diabetic versus non-diabetic pregnancies. Two reviewers independently evaluated the eligibility of studies, abstracted data, and performed quality assessments according to standardized protocols. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was used as a measure of effect size. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 statistic. Publication bias was evaluated by means of funnel plots. Results: A total of 62 publications were included in the qualitative and 43 in quantitative analysis. The UA-RI, UtA-PI, and UtA-S/D ratios were increased in diabetic compared with non-diabetic pregnancies. Subgroup analysis showed that levels of UtA-PI were significantly higher during the third, but not during the first trimester of pregnancy in diabetic versus non-diabetic pregnancies. No differences were found for the UA-PI, UA-S/D ratio, MCA-PI, MCA-RI, MCA-S/D ratio, or UtA-RI between diabetic and non-diabetic pregnancies. Conclusions: This meta-analysis revealed the presence of hemodynamic changes in uterine and umbilical arteries, but not in the middle cerebral artery in pregnancies complicated by diabetes.

Gestational Weight Gain Relates to DNA Methylation in Umbilical Cord, Which, In Turn, Associates with Offspring Obesity-Related Parameters

Excessive gestational weight gain (GWG) has a negative impact on offspring's health. Epigenetic modifications mediate these associations by causing changes in gene expression. We studied the association between GWG and DNA methylation in umbilical cord tissue; and determined whether the DNA methylation and the expression of corresponding annotated genes were associated with obesity-related parameters in offspring at 6 years of age. The methylated CpG sites (CpGs) associated with GWG were identified in umbilical cord tissue by genome-wide DNA methylation (n = 24). Twelve top CpGs were validated in a wider sample by pyrosequencing (n = 87), and the expression of their 5 annotated genes (SETD8, TMEM214, SLIT3, RPTOR, and HOXC8) was assessed by RT-PCR. Pyrosequencing results validated the association of SETD8, SLIT3, and RPTOR methylation with GWG and showed that higher levels of SETD8 and RPTOR methylation and lower levels of SLIT3 methylation relate to a higher risk of obesity in the offspring. The association of SETD8 and SLIT3 gene expression with offspring outcomes paralleled the association of methylation levels in opposite directions. Epigenetic changes in the umbilical cord tissue could explain, in part, the relationship between GWG and offspring obesity risk and be early biomarkers for the prevention of overweight and obesity in childhood.

Periodontitis in Pregnant Women: A Possible Link to Adverse Pregnancy Outcomes

BACKGROUND

Periodontitis develops in 11% of pregnant women, and it is independently linked to severe complications during pregnancy such as preterm birth, low birth weight, and gestational diabetes.

METHODS

A literature search (Pubmed/MEDLINE, and Scopus) from 2003 to 2023 was conducted to analyze studies focused on periodontitis and adverse pregnancy outcomes.

RESULTS

16 articles have been included. Most of the studies showed adverse outcomes, like preterm birth and the low weight of the unborn child, are among the most frequent consequences (respectively 62.5% and 68.7% of articles); pre-eclampsia is also linked to this condition (12.5% of articles); and perinatal mortality (12.5% of articles).

CONCLUSIONS

Periodontal disease appears to be associated with adverse events in pregnancy due to the transport of biofilm bacteria into the bloodstream and into placental tissue; what would cause adverse events is the body's immune response to infection.

Integration of nutrigenomics, melatonin, serotonin and inflammatory cytokines in the pathophysiology of pregnancy-specific urinary incontinence in women with gestational diabetes mellitus

Gestational diabetes mellitus is an important public health problem and has been associated with the development of pregnancy-specific urinary incontinence. The interaction is related to hyperglycemia, and inflammatory and hormonal patterns, which favor functional alterations in different organs and systems. Several genes associated with human diseases have been identified and partially characterized. Most of these genes are known to cause monogenic diseases. However, about 3 % of diseases do not fit the monogenic theory due to the complex interactions between multiple genes and environmental factors, as in chronic metabolic diseases such as diabetes. The nutritional, immunological, and hormonal patterns associated with changes in maternal metabolism may influence and contribute to greater susceptibility to urinary tract disorders. However, early systematic reviews have not yielded consistent findings for these associations. This literature review summarizes important new findings from integrating nutrigenomics, hormones, and cytokines in women with Gestational diabetes mellitus and pregnancy-specific urinary incontinence. Changes in maternal metabolism due to hyperglycemia can generate an inflammatory environment with increased inflammatory cytokines. This environment modulated by inflammation can alter tryptophan uptake through food and thus influence the production of serotonin and melatonin. As these hormones seem to have protective effects against smooth muscle dysfunction and to restore the impaired contractility of the detrusor muscle, it is assumed that these changes may favor the onset of urinary incontinence specific to pregnancy.

Role of Inflammaging on the Reproductive Function and Pregnancy

During female lifetime and pregnancy, inflammation and cellular senescence are implicated in physiological processes, from ovulation and menstruation, to placental homeostasis and delivery. Several lifestyles, nutritional, and environmental insults, as well as long-lasting pregestational inflammatory diseases may lead to detrimental effects in promoting and sustaining a chronic excessive inflammatory response and inflammaging, which finally contribute to the decay of fertility and pregnancy outcome, with a negative effect on placental function, fetal development, and future health risk profile in the offspring. Maladaptation to pregnancy and obstetric disease may in turn increase maternal inflammaging in a feedback loop, speeding up aging processes and outbreak of chronic diseases. Maternal inflammaging may also impact, through transgenerational effects, on future adult health. Hence, efficacious interventions should be implemented by physicians and healthcare professionals involved in prevention activities to reduce the modifiable factors contributing to the inflammaging process in order to improve public health.

Maternal obesity and gestational diabetes reprogram the methylome of offspring beyond birth by inducing epigenetic signatures in metabolic and developmental pathways

BACKGROUND

Obesity is a negative chronic metabolic health condition that represents an additional risk for the development of multiple pathologies. Epidemiological studies have shown how maternal obesity or gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy constitute serious risk factors in relation to the appearance of cardiometabolic diseases in the offspring. Furthermore, epigenetic remodelling may help explain the molecular mechanisms that underlie these epidemiological findings. Thus, in this study we explored the DNA methylation landscape of children born to mothers with obesity and gestational diabetes during their first year of life.

METHODS

We used Illumina Infinium MethylationEPIC BeadChip arrays to profile more than 770,000 genome-wide CpG sites in blood samples from a paediatric longitudinal cohort consisting of 26 children born to mothers who suffered from obesity or obesity with gestational diabetes mellitus during pregnancy and 13 healthy controls (measurements taken at 0, 6 and 12 month; total N = 90). We carried out cross-sectional and longitudinal analyses to derive DNA methylation alterations associated with developmental and pathology-related epigenomics.

RESULTS

We identified abundant DNA methylation changes during child development from birth to 6 months and, to a lesser extent, up to 12 months of age. Using cross-sectional analyses, we discovered DNA methylation biomarkers maintained across the first year of life that could discriminate children born to mothers who suffered from obesity or obesity with gestational diabetes. Importantly, enrichment analyses suggested that these alterations constitute epigenetic signatures that affect genes and pathways involved in the metabolism of fatty acids, postnatal developmental processes and mitochondrial bioenergetics, such as CPT1B, SLC38A4, SLC35F3 and FN3K. Finally, we observed evidence of an interaction between developmental DNA methylation changes and maternal metabolic condition alterations.

CONCLUSIONS

Our observations highlight the first six months of development as being the most crucial for epigenetic remodelling. Furthermore, our results support the existence of systemic intrauterine foetal programming linked to obesity and gestational diabetes that affects the childhood methylome beyond birth, which involves alterations related to metabolic pathways, and which may interact with ordinary postnatal development programmes.