Medizinische Universität Graz Austria/Österreich - Forschungsportal - Medical University of Graz
Gewählte Publikation:
Hittmann, W.
Fetal Programming and Risk of Cardiovascular Diseases
Humanmedizin; [ Diplomarbeit ] ; 2018. pp. 61
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- Autor*innen der Med Uni Graz:
- Betreuer*innen:
- Goswami Nandu
- Altmetrics:
- Abstract:
- Background: Barker postulated that insults in early life would predispose an individual for several chronic diseases. Certain events in so called ‘critical periods’ of fetal life would lead to adaptations, which result in the development of diabetes, dyslipidemia, hypertension or cardiovascular diseases. Undernourishment is one example that leads to persisting alterations of metabolic functions of the fetus and has life long effects. Barker’s hypothesis was proven to be true and the research community is working to elucidate mechanisms of how fetal programming works. Aims and objectives: The aim of this diploma thesis is to explore the field of fetal programming and to conduct an extensive update of the current literature. Special focus in this work is given on the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Methodology: A systemic literature search was performed in PubMed. Included were articles written in English, which were published in the last 5 years. Specific criteria were used to assess the relevance of articles. Furthermore list of references were used to obtain relevant primary literature for this diploma thesis. Information for the introduction chapter were obtained from secondary literature as well as from primary literature. Results: 25 articles were evaluated; 12 papers were excluded, 13 papers were relevant. Discussion: Cardiovascular diseases are still one of the leading causes of death in the world and research in fetal programming can a long way to reduce this burden. Some mechanisms are already understood and it is clear now that a variety of factors, like placental perfusion, oxidative stress and diet can lead to adverse in utero circumstances. The consequences on the cardiovascular system are enormous, but recent research offers hope for treatment approaches in the future.