Impact of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in the Maternal-to-Fetal Transport of Nutrients

• Type: Article in International Scientific Journal
• Date: 2015

Authors

Araújo JR (Author) FMUP; Elisa Keating (Author) FMUP; Martel, F (Author) FMUP

Journal

Title: Current Diabetes Reports

Vol. 15

ISSN: 1534-4827

Publisher: Springer Nature

Indexing

ISI Web of Knowledge - 41 Citations

Scopus - 46 Citations

Other information

Authenticus ID: P-00A-4BV

DOI: 10.1007/s11892-014-0569-y

Abstract (EN): Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a metabolic disorder prevalent among pregnant women. This disease increases the risk of adverse perinatal outcomes and diseases in the offspring later in life. The human placenta, the main interface between the maternal and fetal blood circulations, is responsible for the maternal-to-fetal transfer of nutrients essential for fetal growth and development. In this context, the aim of this article is to review the latest advances in the placental transport of macro and micronutrients and how they are affected by GDM and its associated conditions, such as elevated levels of glucose, insulin, leptin, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Data analyzed in this article suggest that GDM and its associated conditions, particularly high levels of glucose, leptin, and oxidative stress, disturb placental nutrient transport and, consequently, fetal nutrient supply. As a consequence, this disturbance may contribute to the fetal and postnatal adverse health outcomes associated with GDM.

Language: English

Type (Professor's evaluation): Scientific

No. of pages: 10