Redox Homeostasis in Parental and Neonatal Nutrition

Dear Colleagues,

The first years in life represent a critical developmental period, where different tissues are prone to environment-induced deregulation due to their high plasticity. According to the Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) concept, early adverse conditions, such as maternal malnutrition during preconception, gestation, and lactation, can induce biochemical and physiological changes in the offspring, affecting the risk of disease development throughout life. More recently, a paternal contribution to the DOHaD concept has also been demonstrated. Parental diet and neonatal nutrition play crucial roles in maintaining redox homeostasis, which refers to the balance between oxidants and antioxidants within cells and organs. In fact, parental diet can impact this equilibrium even before fertilization, altering the maturation of gametes. During development, oxidants are essential in order to stimulate signaling pathways related to cell growth and differentiation. However, a finely tuned system must be maintained to avoid an excessive production of oxidants, leading to oxidative stress and the oxidation of lipids, proteins, carbohydrates, and even nucleic acids.  After birth, neonatal nutrition becomes essential. Breast milk is always the best option, providing antioxidants that help to neutralize reactive species and support redox balance. Once solid food is introduced, the parental choices become decisive for maintaining redox balance in the developing individual. A redox system imbalance can lead to various health issues, including altered susceptibility to infections, as well as cardiovascular, neurodegenerative, and metabolic diseases later in life.

This Special Issue welcomes original research papers and reviews that aim to enhance our comprehension on all aspects associated with redox homeostasis in the context of parental and neonatal nutrition. Preclinical and clinical studies are allowed.

We look forward to your contribution.

Dr. Cristiane Matté
Prof. Dr. Thomas Prates Ong
Guest Editors

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• parental and neonatal nutrition
• supplementation
• offspring’s redox status
• antioxidants
• oxidants