Risk Factors and Molecular Mechanisms of Gestational Diabetes

Dear Colleagues,

Gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is one of the most common pregnancy-related health conditions, affecting 5–10% of pregnant women; however, even-higher incidences are reported among some ethnicities. In addition, GDM is rising in the population. The majority of women who develop GDM have peripheral insulin resistance related to being overweight and obese, although GDM can also occur in the absence of obesity. GDM increases the risk for the development of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease in women. Beyond its effects on maternal health, GDM also has serious health implications for the offspring. GDM is associated with elevated incidence of complications during delivery, fetal postpartum hypoglycemia and congenital defects. In addition, GDM is associated with altered fetal growth as well as an obesity, type 2 diabetes (T2D) and heart disease in the offspring as they age. Considerable interest is focused on finding biomarkers and mechanisms that explain GDM risk, as well as the mechanisms that condition the offspring for an increased risk of disease. This Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, “Risk Factors and Molecular Mechanisms of Gestational Diabetes” will focus on these biomarkers and mechanisms in humans and animal model research. Authors are invited to submit manuscripts that address risk factors, biomarkers and mechanisms of GDM development and their impact on their offspring. In addition, authors may also discuss therapies and interventions for GDM that are focused on improving the health of women and their children exposed to GDM.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vernon W. Dolinsky
Guest Editor

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