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Experimental evidence for long-term programming effects of early diet
M E Symonds1, H Budge, T Stephenson
1Centre for Reproduction and Early Life, Institute of Clinical Research, University Hospital, Nottingham, NG7 2UH, United Kingdom.
Advances in Experimental Medicine and Biology
|September 3, 2005
Summary
Early life nutrient restriction significantly alters offspring kidney and fat development, impacting adult cardiovascular and metabolic health. This developmental programming may increase disease susceptibility later in life.
Area of Science:
- Developmental programming
- Nutritional science
- Fetal organogenesis
- Metabolic health
Background:
- Nutritional factors during critical developmental windows can permanently alter physiology.
- Understanding how early nutrition impacts long-term health is crucial for preventative strategies.
- Specific nutrient restrictions may influence organ development and subsequent metabolic function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the long-term effects of nutrient restriction during early development on adult physiology.
- To examine changes in organ development, cardiovascular function, and metabolic markers in offspring.
- To determine if early-life nutritional programming influences adipocyte sensitivity to stress.
Main Methods:
- Maternal nutrient restriction applied during specific embryonic or placental development periods.
- Analysis of fetal organ development, focusing on kidney and fat mass.
- Measurement of mRNA abundance for key regulatory genes (leptin, IGFs, glucocorticoid receptors).
- Assessment of cardiovascular baroreflex sensitivity and plasma leptin levels post-sympathetic stimulation in adult offspring.
Main Results:
- Nutrient-restricted offspring showed increased kidney and fat mass without affecting fetal weight.
- Elevated mRNA levels for leptin, insulin-like growth factors I/II, and glucocorticoid receptors were observed.
- Adult nutrient-restricted offspring exhibited blunted cardiovascular baroreflex and increased plasma leptin after sympathetic stimulation, indicating altered adipocyte sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Global nutrient restriction during early development programs adult physiology.
- Programmed changes include altered organ development and metabolic regulation, potentially increasing disease risk.
- Early nutritional interventions can have lasting impacts on stress response and adipocyte function.