Lipid Metabolism in Pregnancy and Its Consequences in the Fetus and Newborn
A special issue of Nutrients (ISSN 2072-6643). This special issue belongs to the section "Lipids".
Deadline for manuscript submissions: closed (5 September 2024) | Viewed by 5377
Special Issue Editor
2. Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore 117609, Singapore
Interests: placenta; fetal growth and development; inositol; gestational diabetes; preterm birth; thyroid disorders; DOHaD; lipidome; breastmilk
Special Issue Information
Dear Colleagues,
Lipids constitute a range of species and understanding the biological functions of each one is still in its infancy. It is widely accepted that lipids play a significant role in fetal growth and development during pregnancy, not only as a source of energy but also as essential building blocks for tissue growth and as critical signaling agents in maternal-placental-fetal cross talk. Complex changes occur in maternal lipid metabolism during pregnancy to fulfill both maternal requirements for regulating lipid stores and energy reserves and fetoplacental requirements for lipid substrates.
The regulation of lipid transfer across the placenta is complex and highly influenced by placental lipid metabolism. Correlations between maternal plasma triacylglycerols (TAG) and non-esterified fatty acids (NEFA) with fetal cord lipids, growth and fat masses are altered under different clinical conditions such as gestational diabetes, the mechanisms of which remain poorly understood. Furthermore, in pregnancies complicated by small gestational age fetuses, there is evidence of defects in both placental lipid metabolism and transfer, as well as impairments in fetal utilization occurring at the tissue level, which contributes to the condition’s pathophysiology.
The supply of long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC-PUFA) from the mother to the fetus is particularly significant since the fetoplacental unit lacks the ability to synthesize them. The placenta employs mechanisms that work to preferentially transfer these LC-PUFAs, which again are impaired in certain pregnancy complications, including gestational diabetes. LC-PUFAs play a crucial role in promoting healthy pregnancy and offspring outcomes. For example, DHA is vital to fetal development, particularly for the brain and nervous system. Arachidonic acid is required to synthesize eicosanoids and other signaling compounds which regulate angiogenesis and parturition. Meanwhile, some studies have suggested the possible benefits of Omega-3 supplementation when lowering the risks of perinatal depression and preterm labor.
While much evidence suggests the major involvement of maternal lipid intake and metabolism when influencing offspring health both in the short and long term, its precise mechanisms remain to be elucidated. With greater understanding, the potential for the innovative utilization of lipid interventions needs to be expanded. This Special Issue provides a platform for researchers to discuss this topic with the aim of promoting development in this field. We welcome original articles, narratives and systematic reviews.
Dr. Shiao-Yng Chan
Guest Editor
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Keywords
- lipids
- fatty acids
- pregnancy
- maternal
- fetus
- newborn
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