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Review
. 2011 May;29(3):225-36.
doi: 10.1055/s-0031-1275516. Epub 2011 Jun 27.

The intrauterine growth restriction phenotype: fetal adaptations and potential implications for later life insulin resistance and diabetes

Stephanie R Thorn  1 , Paul J Rozance, Laura D Brown, William W Hay Jr
Affiliations
Review

The intrauterine growth restriction phenotype: fetal adaptations and potential implications for later life insulin resistance and diabetes

Stephanie R Thorn et al. Semin Reprod Med. 2011 May.

Abstract

The intrauterine growth restricted (IUGR) fetus develops unique metabolic adaptations in response to exposure to reduced nutrient supply. These adaptations provide survival value for the fetus by enhancing the capacity of the fetus to take up and use nutrients, thereby reducing the need for nutrient supply. Each organ and tissue in the fetus adapts differently, with the brain showing the greatest capacity for maintaining nutrient supply and growth. Such adaptations, if persistent, also have the potential in later life to promote nutrient uptake and storage, which directly lead to complications of obesity, insulin resistance, reduced insulin production, and type 2 diabetes.

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Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Transition from insulin sensitive to insulin resistant in intrauterine growth-restricted offspring.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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