Endocrine Abstracts

Fetal growth restriction (FGR) defines a fetus which does not achieve its intrauterine growth potential. FGR is linked to placental dysfunction and hypoxia and is associated with a high risk of stillbirth, neonatal death and long-term complications; there are no treatments. Estrogen related receptor γ (ERRγ) is a nuclear receptor that is regulated by hypoxia in other systems; it is expressed in the placenta, thus we propose that it may be an important regulator of hy...

Background: Maternal B12 deficiency is linked with adverse metabolic disorders in infants. B12 has a potential epigenetic role which could influence placental dysfunction and fetal metabolism. Adipokines such as leptin and adiponectin play a major role in placental development by regulating lipid metabolism. Alterations in in-utero programming develop risk to obesity and metabolic diseases in offspring. B12 deficiency in mothers has been linked with higher cor...

Background: Vitamin B12 is crucial for placental development and fetal growth. B12 deficiency is associated with maternal obesity and adverse pregnancy outcomes. B12 is essential for the synthesis of S-Adenosyl methionine (SAM) which serves as a methyl donor in various cellular processes including DNA and RNA methylation. Pregnant women with low B12 have higher triglycerides, lower HDL and lower DNA methylation of cholesterol transcription factor. However, the...