Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jan 4, 2026
07:34
Fetal Mouse Cardiovascular Imaging Using a High-frequency Ultrasound 30/45MHZ System
Published on: May 5, 2018
12.1K
Glucocorticoid Maturation of Fetal Cardiovascular Function
Juanita K Jellyman1, Andrew J W Fletcher2, Abigail L Fowden3
1Department of Biological Sciences, California State Polytechnic University, Pomona, CA, USA.
Trends in Molecular Medicine
|November 14, 2019
Summary
Glucocorticoids are vital for fetal development, yet their role in the fetal cardiovascular system is understudied. This review explores their impact on fetal heart function and stress responses, crucial for newborn adaptation.
Area of Science:
- Perinatology
- Fetal Physiology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Glucocorticoids play a critical role in fetal maturation for extrauterine life.
- The cardiovascular system's maturation by glucocorticoids remains under-explored compared to other organ systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the effects of glucocorticoids on fetal basal cardiovascular function.
- To examine glucocorticoid influence on fetal cardiovascular defense responses to acute stress.
- To discuss the implications of antenatal glucocorticoid therapy for preterm infants' cardiovascular health.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on glucocorticoid effects on fetal cardiovascular system.
- Analysis of basal cardiovascular parameters and stress responses.
- Evaluation of clinical data regarding antenatal glucocorticoid therapy.
Main Results:
- Glucocorticoids significantly influence fetal cardiovascular development and stress adaptation.
- Maturational changes are crucial for the transition to neonatal life.
- Antenatal glucocorticoid therapy presents a complex benefit-risk profile for preterm infants.
Conclusions:
- Understanding glucocorticoid actions on the fetal cardiovascular system is essential for neonatal adaptation.
- Further research is needed to optimize antenatal glucocorticoid therapy for cardiovascular health.
- Glucocorticoid-mediated maturation is key for successful extrauterine transition.
Related Concept Videos
01:31Hormones of the Adrenal Glands
4.4K
Adrenal hormones play a pivotal role in maintaining the body's electrolyte balance and orchestrating responses to stress, showcasing the intricate functions of the adrenal cortex and medulla.
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and...
The adrenal cortex, a powerhouse of hormone synthesis, generates over two dozen corticosteroid hormones. The zona glomerulosa produces mineralocorticoids, exemplified by aldosterone, influencing the electrolyte composition of body fluids. The synthesis of glucocorticoids such as cortisol and...
4.4K
01:14Fetal Circulation
2.3K
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...
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...
2.3K
01:07Teratogenicity
3.9K
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...
3.9K
01:24Gonadal and Placental Hormones
2.6K
The gonads, namely the testes in males and the ovaries in females, are pivotal in producing gonadal hormones that orchestrate the intricate processes of sexual development and reproduction.
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair...
In males, testosterone is the primary gonadal androgen. It plays a central role in the maturation of male reproductive organs — the penis and testes. Additionally, testosterone is instrumental in the development of secondary sexual characteristics — a deep voice as well as facial and pubic hair...
2.6K
01:31Adrenergic Antagonists: ɑ and β-Receptor Blockers
1.1K
Third-generation β-blockers, such as labetalol and carvedilol, represent a significant advancement in managing cardiovascular conditions. Unlike conventional β-blockers, which can induce peripheral vasoconstriction, third-generation drugs block α1 adrenoceptors. This promotes vasodilation through several mechanisms, such as increased nitric oxide production, inhibition of calcium ion entry, opening of potassium ion channels, and antioxidant action. Labetalol, for instance, is...
1.1K
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: Inhaled Corticosteroids and Glucocorticoids
1.4K
Inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) are anti-inflammatory drugs used primarily in treating persistent asthma and providing long-term maintenance. They target the bronchial mucosa, the lining of the airways, to control inflammation, a critical factor in asthma progression and exacerbation.
ICS work through a multifaceted mechanism of action. They suppress the inflammatory response caused by the proliferation of TH cells. They also reduce the transcription of the IL-2 gene, which is involved in the...
ICS work through a multifaceted mechanism of action. They suppress the inflammatory response caused by the proliferation of TH cells. They also reduce the transcription of the IL-2 gene, which is involved in the...
1.4K