Pathogenesis of Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM): The Role of Adipocyte Cytokines and Related Novel Biomarkers
Principal investigator: Cuilin Zhang, M.D., Ph.D.
GDM is a common pregnancy complication. Although the precise underlying mechanism has yet to be identified, insulin resistance and inadequate insulin secretion to compensate for it play a central role in the pathophysiology of GDM. Excess adiposity is an important modifiable risk factor for the development of the condition. Mechanisms linking excess adiposity to elevated risk of GDM are not completely understood, but recent evidence points to the crucial role of specific hormones and cytokines (“adipokines”) secreted by the adipose tissue.
The general goal of this project is to collect biological specimens for research on the pathogenesis of GDM. Under this research theme, the specific aim of this project is to prospectively investigate novel biochemical markers involved in adipocyte cytokine secretion and metabolism in association with subsequent risk of GDM. The researchers will longitudinally collect multiple bio-specimens throughout pregnancy from 4,600 pregnant women enrolled in two ongoing prospective studies of pregnant women: the National Standard for Normal Fetal Growth Study and the Effects of Aspirin in Gestation and Reproduction Trial.
DESPR Collaborators
· Enrique F. Schisterman, Ph.D.
· Jun (Jim) Zhang, M.D., Ph.D.
· Liwei Chen, M.D., Ph.D., M.H.S.
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