Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 25, 2026

Instrumentation of Near-term Fetal Sheep for Multivariate Chronic Non-anesthetized Recordings
Published on: October 25, 2015
Effect of seasonal programming on fetal development and longevity: links with environmental temperature
Andreas D Flouris1, Yiannis Spiropoulos, Giorgos J Sakellariou
1The Institute of Human Performance and Rehabilitation, Centre for Research and Technology, Thessaly, Greece. aflouris@cereteth.gr
Abstract:
This study examined the effect of birth season on fetal development and longevity using two independent databases of all Greek citizens that were born (total: 516,874) or died (total: 554,101) between 1999 and 2003. We found significantly increased birth weight, gestational age, and longevity in individuals born during the autumn and winter seasons of the year. These individuals also demonstrated statistically significantly lower prevalence rates for fetal growth restriction and premature birth. Furthermore, we found that increased temperature at birth was associated with adverse effects on fetal development and longevity. In conclusion, our results show strong effects of season of birth on fetal development and longevity mediated, at least in part, by environmental temperature at time of birth.
Related Concept Videos
Biological Clocks and Seasonal Responses
Factors Affecting Body Temperature
Factors may include:
Background and Environment Affect Phenotype
An example of how genetic background affects phenotype can be seen in horses. The Extension gene in horses is responsible for their coat color. A wild-type gene (EE) produces black pigment in the coat, while a mutant gene (ee) produces red pigment. A...
Derivatives: Problem Solving
Homeostatic Imbalances in Body Temperature
Decreased Body Temperature

