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The impact of gestational diabetes mellitus on fetal neural development: A systematic review

Zenia Safwan1, Emaan Ijaz2, Hafsa Shamim3

  • 1CMH Kharian Medical College, Kharian, Pakistan.

Brain & Development
|March 6, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can impact fetal brain development, leading to neurodevelopmental risks in children. Effective glycemic control during pregnancy may offer protection against these effects.

Area of Science:

  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Biology
  • Endocrinology

Background:

  • Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) affects fetal development.
  • Potential long-term neurodevelopmental consequences for offspring are a growing concern.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To systematically review existing research on GDM's impact on fetal neural development.
  • To examine the subsequent cognitive function in offspring exposed to GDM in utero.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic review adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
  • Searched PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov (1964-2024).
  • Included studies comparing offspring of mothers with and without GDM; assessed quality using NOS.

Main Results:

  • Seventeen studies indicated GDM is linked to neurodevelopmental modifications.
  • Findings include communication delays, behavioral issues, and increased risk for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
  • Neuroimaging and molecular studies revealed structural brain variations and altered neurogenesis, with dose-dependent effects of maternal glucose and benefits of glycemic control.

Conclusions:

  • Maternal GDM is associated with fetal brain alterations, potentially increasing neurodevelopmental risks.
  • Early glycemic control and postnatal monitoring are valuable for at-risk infants.
  • Further research is needed to differentiate GDM effects from confounders.
Abstract

Keywords:
Autism Spectrum disorderBrain maturationBrain-derived neurotrophic factorCognitive developmentEpigeneticsFetal neurodevelopmentGestational diabetesGestational diabetes mellitusMaternal hyperglycemiaPregnancySystematic review

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