Open AccessReduced adaptation of the pancreatic B cells during pregnancy is the major causal factor for gestational diabetes: Current knowledge and metabolic effects on the offspring
Author(s) -
DEVLIEGER ROLAND,
CASTEELS KRISTINA,
VAN ASSCHE FRANS A.
Publication year - 2008
Publication title -
acta obstetricia et gynecologica scandinavica
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.401
H-Index - 102
eISSN - 1600-0412
pISSN - 0001-6349
DOI - 10.1080/00016340802443863
Subject(s) - medicine , gestational diabetes , offspring , pregnancy , adaptation (eye) , gestation , diabetes mellitus , risk factor , obstetrics , endocrinology , physiology , genetics , biology , physics , optics
This commentary summarizes current knowledge on the pathophysiology of gestational diabetes, focusing on the role of the endocrine pancreas and the β‐cells, their adaptation in normal pregnancy, and recent insights in the molecular basis for deficient adaptation in diabetes occurring during pregnancy. Additionally, the effects of disturbed maternal glucose metabolism during pregnancy on the glucose metabolism of the offspring are discussed.