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Umbilical cord androgens in infants of diabetic mothers
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Barzilai Medical Center, Ashkelon, Israel.
Insights
Umbilical cord testosterone and androstenedione levels did not differ between infants of mothers with and without diabetes. Fetal weight and insulin levels showed no correlation with these androgen levels in newborns.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Neonatal Health
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) can impact fetal development.
- Androgens play a role in fetal growth and development.
- Understanding hormonal profiles in infants of diabetic mothers is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To measure umbilical cord blood concentrations of testosterone and androstenedione.
- To investigate the relationship between these androgens and fetal weight.
- To explore correlations with fetal insulin levels in infants of diabetic mothers.
Main Methods:
- Umbilical venous blood samples were collected at birth.
- Concentrations of testosterone, androstenedione, and insulin were measured.
- Infants of 12 gestational diabetic mothers and 12 controls were studied.
Main Results:
- Mean umbilical cord testosterone and androstenedione levels were comparable between diabetic and control groups.
- No significant differences in androgen concentrations were observed.
- Maternal weight, fetal weight, and insulin levels did not correlate with umbilical androgen levels.
Conclusions:
- Gestational diabetes does not appear to significantly alter umbilical cord androgen levels.
- Fetal weight and insulin concentrations are not associated with umbilical testosterone or androstenedione.
- Further research may explore other factors influencing fetal androgen exposure.
Abstract:
The aim was to measure umbilical cord testosterone and androstenedione and to explore possible relationships with fetal weight and insulin levels. Testosterone, androstenedione and insulin were measured at birth in venous umbilical blood in 12 infants of gestational diabetic mothers and in 12 control subjects. The mean concentrations of umbilical testosterone and androstenedione were not significantly different between the infants of the diabetic and control mothers. No significant correlation was found between maternal weight, fetal weight or insulin concentrations and androgen levels.