Placental mRNA levels of genes regulating fetal glucocorticoid and neurotransmitter exposure correlate with birth size, but not in very severely obese pregnancy (original) (raw)

Maternal obesity has been linked to increased birth size and neuro-behavioral issues in offspring, potentially due to altered fetal exposure to glucocorticoids and neurotransmitters mediated by placental gene expression. This study evaluated placental mRNA levels of genes involved in glucocorticoid handling and neurotransmitter transport in both lean and severely obese pregnancies. The findings indicated significant correlations between specific placental mRNA levels and birth length or BMI in lean pregnancies, but not in severely obese pregnancies, suggesting a protective adaptation in their placentas to mitigate excess fetal exposure. Further research is planned to explore the implications of these results on offspring health.