Long-term consequences for offspring of diabetes during pregnancy.
There is evidence that the diabetic intra-uterine environment has consequences for later life. Maternal diabetes mainly results in asymmetric macrosomia. This macrosomia is associated with an increased insulin secretion and overstimulation of the insulin producing B-cells during fetal life. In later life, a reduced insulin secretion is found. Intra-uterine growth restriction is present in severe maternal diabetes associated with vasculopathy. Intra-uterine growth restriction is associated with low insulin secretion and reduced development of the insulin receptors. In later life, these alterations can induce insulin resistance. The long-term consequences of an abnormal intra-uterine environment are of primary importance world-wide. Concentrated efforts are needed to explore how these long-term effects can be prevented.
Van Assche
F A
FA
Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University Hospital Gasthuisberg, Leuven, Belgium.
Holemans
K
K
Aerts
L
L
D000818:Animals; D016640:Diabetes, Gestational / Q000150:complications*; D004195:Disease Models, Animal; D005314:Embryonic and Fetal Development / Q000502:physiology; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007333:Insulin Resistance / Q000502:physiology; D011247:Pregnancy; D011254:Pregnancy in Diabetics / Q000150:complications*; D011297:Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects