Genetic determinants of low birth weight
Theresa Mallia1, Alexia Grech1, Abigail Hili1
1Department of Anatomy, Faculty of Medicine and Surgery, University of Malta, Msida, Malta.
Minerva Ginecologica
|March 23, 2017
Summary
Fetal growth and birth weight are influenced by maternal and fetal genetics, placental function, and environmental factors. Genetic variations and epigenetic changes significantly impact fetal growth, potentially leading to low birth weight.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Genetics
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Birth weight is determined by complex interactions between maternal and fetal factors.
- The intrauterine environment critically influences fetal development and birth weight.
- Genetic variants and epigenetic modifications play a key role in regulating fetal growth.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the impact of genetic variants on intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and low birth weight (LBW).
- To explore the interplay between fetal genotype and the intrauterine environment.
- To highlight specific mechanisms like genomic imprinting and maternal smoking effects.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of genetic factors affecting birth weight.
- Analysis of the growth hormone/insulin-like growth factor (IGF) axis in IUGR.
- Examination of epigenetic mechanisms, including genomic imprinting.
- Investigation of environmental influences like maternal smoking.
Main Results:
- Genetic variations in fetal genes often alter the growth hormone/IGF axis, leading to IUGR.
- Interactions between fetal genotype and maternal environment affect gene expression crucial for growth.
- Maternal cigarette smoking synergistically affects specific genes, contributing to LBW.
- Confined placental mosaicism is linked to severe IUGR or fetal death.
Conclusions:
- Fetal growth is a multifactorial process influenced by genetic, epigenetic, and environmental factors.
- Alterations in key growth pathways and imprinting mechanisms are critical in determining birth weight.
- Understanding these interactions is vital for addressing IUGR and LBW.
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