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Related Concept Videos

Development of Immunocompetence01:22

Development of Immunocompetence

The initiation of cell-mediated immunity can be observed as early as the third month of fetal growth, with active antibody-mediated immunity following approximately one month later.
The initial cells that migrate from the fetal thymus settle within the skin and epithelial tissues lining the mouth, digestive tract, and in females, the uterus and vagina. These cells, including skin-based dendritic cells, serve as antigen-presenting cells, playing a key role in T cell activation.
Subsequent T...
Development of Blood Vessels01:07

Development of Blood Vessels

The development of the vascular system in a fetus is a complex and intricate process that begins as early as 15 to 16 days post-conception. This process starts outside the embryo, specifically in the mesoderm of the yolk sac, chorion, and connecting stalk. Approximately two days later, the formation of blood vessels occurs within the embryo itself.
The initial formation of this system is facilitated by the small amount of yolk present in the ovum and yolk sac. Blood vessels originate from...
Fetal Circulation01:14

Fetal Circulation

Fetal circulation is a unique system that facilitates the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the developing fetus and the mother. This intricate process takes place through a special organ called the placenta.
Two umbilical arteries transport blood from the fetus to the placenta. At the placenta, the blood absorbs oxygen and nutrients while simultaneously eliminating waste products. This oxygen-enriched and nutrient-rich blood then returns to the fetus through one...
Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus01:15

Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus

Development of the reproductive organs in an embryo starts from a bipotential state. This means the early embryo can develop either male or female reproductive organs. The formation of these organs begins with the growth of gonadal ridges that arise from the intermediate mesoderm during the fifth week of development.
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Teratogenicity

The ability of a drug to produce structural deformations and functional abnormalities in the developing embryo or the fetus is called teratogenicity, and the drug producing this effect is known as a teratogen. Teratogenic effects include stillbirth, miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, and neurocognitive delay. A teratogen may affect the embryo at different stages of development, which is important in determining the type and extent of the damage. During blastocyst formation, the early...
Embryonic Stem Cells00:58

Embryonic Stem Cells

Embryonic stem (ES) cells are undifferentiated pluripotent cells, meaning they can produce any cell type in the body. This gives them tremendous potential in science and medicine since they can generate specific cell types for use in research or to replace body cells lost due to damage or disease.

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Modifying Levels of Maternal Dietary Folic Acid or Choline to Study the Impact of Deficiencies on Offspring Health Outcomes
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Modifying Levels of Maternal Dietary Folic Acid or Choline to Study the Impact of Deficiencies on Offspring Health Outcomes

Published on: June 28, 2024

B12 in fetal development.

M Reese Pepper1, Maureen M Black

  • 1University of Maryland School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Growth and Nutrition, Baltimore, MD 21201, USA.

Seminars in Cell & Developmental Biology
|June 14, 2011
PubMed
Summary
This summary is machine-generated.

Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is crucial for fetal and child development. Deficiency risks are higher in certain pregnant women, potentially impacting cognitive and motor outcomes, necessitating further research into prevention and mechanisms.

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06:43

High Frequency Ultrasound for the Analysis of Fetal and Placental Development In Vivo

Published on: November 8, 2018

Area of Science:

  • Nutritional Science
  • Developmental Biology
  • Maternal Health

Background:

  • Vitamin B12 (cobalamin) is essential for fetal and child development.
  • Certain groups, including pregnant women with specific dietary or medical conditions (e.g., vegetarian/vegan diets, Crohn's, celiac disease, gastric bypass), face increased risk of B12 deficiency.
  • Low B12 levels are associated with adverse cognitive, motor, and growth outcomes in children and may be linked to adult depression.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To highlight the critical role of Vitamin B12 in development.
  • To identify populations at risk for B12 deficiency during pregnancy.
  • To underscore the need for further research into B12's developmental mechanisms and supplementation efficacy.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review and synthesis of existing research on Vitamin B12.
  • Analysis of studies linking B12 levels to developmental outcomes.
  • Identification of risk factors for B12 deficiency in pregnant women and children.

Main Results:

  • Vitamin B12 deficiency poses risks to fetal and child development, affecting cognitive, motor, and growth parameters.
  • Specific maternal conditions increase the likelihood of B12 deficiency.
  • Preliminary evidence suggests B12 supplementation may benefit children, but more research is required.

Conclusions:

  • Vitamin B12 is vital for healthy development, and deficiency can have significant consequences.
  • Understanding the precise mechanisms of cobalamin's influence on development is crucial.
  • Preventive strategies and further research are indicated to address B12 deficiency in pregnant women and children.