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Diurnal cortisol rhythm and cognitive functioning in toddlers: the Generation R Study
Nathalie S Saridjan1, Jens Henrichs, Jacqueline J Schenk
1a The Generation R Study Group, Erasmus MC-University Medical Center Rotterdam , Rotterdam , the Netherlands.
Summary
Diurnal cortisol patterns in infants are linked to toddler cognitive development. Lower cortisol awakening response (CAR) and flatter slopes indicate a reduced risk of cognitive delays, suggesting stress impacts early development.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Developmental Psychology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Diurnal cortisol secretion patterns and their relationship with early-life cognitive function remain underexplored.
- Understanding these associations is crucial for identifying early markers of cognitive development.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between diurnal cortisol rhythms and cognitive functioning in toddlers.
- To determine if cortisol awakening response (CAR), diurnal slope, and area under the curve (AUC) predict cognitive development.
Main Methods:
- Population-based study within the Generation R Study involving 364 infants.
- Saliva samples collected to assess diurnal cortisol rhythm (AUC, CAR, slope).
- Cognitive functioning (verbal, nonverbal) and fine motor development assessed at 18 and 30 months.
Main Results:
- A more positive CAR was associated with lower risk of delay in language comprehension and nonverbal cognitive development.
- Flatter diurnal cortisol slopes correlated with a reduced risk of nonverbal cognitive delay.
- Higher AUC levels were linked to an increased risk of language production delay.
Conclusions:
- Diurnal cortisol rhythms are associated with cognitive functioning in early childhood.
- Infants with diurnal cortisol patterns indicating less stress and more reactivity (lower AUC, positive CAR) exhibit a lower risk of cognitive delays.
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