WEEK 9 — Obesity in Pregnancy, Glucocorticoids & Foetal Maturation - ANHB3316

What BMI is classified as obese?

≥30 kg/m².

Name two key pro-inflammatory substances secreted by adipose tissue.

Leptin and pro-inflammatory cytokines.

Why is obesity considered a chronic low-grade inflammatory state?

Adipose tissue promotes macrophage migration and cytokine production.

How does maternal obesity affect foetal circadian rhythms in animal models?

Reduces Per1/Bmal1 expression and shifts circadian timing.

What role does melatonin play in obesity-related pregnancy outcomes?

Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant; rescues foetal growth and circadian alignment.

What is the active form of synthetic antenatal glucocorticoids commonly used?

Betamethasone.

What is the purpose of antenatal glucocorticoids?

Promote foetal organ maturation (especially lungs) before preterm birth.

How do glucocorticoids affect the lung during development?

Promote thinning of mesenchyme and alveolar space formation.

What are potential adverse effects of excess prenatal glucocorticoid exposure?

Increased cardiovascular and neurological risk; reduced IQ; lower birth weight.

What is the survival impact of antenatal steroids in preterm births?

Reduces incidence of respiratory distress syndrome and improves survival rates.