Abstract | BACKGROUND: Certain essential long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) are considered important for fetal growth and brain development, whereas industrial trans fatty acids (mainly 18:1trans) have been associated with negative effects. The aim of this study was to investigate associations between term birth dimensions and prenatal exposure to some of these fatty acids, reflected by neonatal fatty acid concentrations at birth. METHODS: RESULTS: After optimal adjustment, a significant negative association was observed between birth weight and umbilical plasma DHA concentrations. Negative associations were also found for AA concentrations measured in umbilical plasma and in arterial and venous vessel walls. Birth length was negatively related to arterial vessel wall AA concentrations only. A significant negative association was observed for the relationship between 18:1t in cord erythrocytes and birth weight. For DGLA no significant associations were observed. CONCLUSIONS: Results seem to preclude a role of DHA and AA as growth factors per se. Their negative relationships with birth dimensions may result from a limited maternal-fetal LCPUFA transfer capacity. Potential effects of 18:1t and DGLA on birth dimensions are probably small or non-existing.
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Authors | Chantal E H Dirix, Arnold D Kester, Gerard Hornstra |
Journal | Early human development
(Early Hum Dev)
Vol. 85
Issue 8
Pg. 525-30
(Aug 2009)
ISSN: 1872-6232 [Electronic] Ireland |
PMID | 19477608
(Publication Type: Journal Article, Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't)
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Chemical References |
- Fatty Acids, Essential
- Trans Fatty Acids
- Docosahexaenoic Acids
- Arachidonic Acid
- 8,11,14-Eicosatrienoic Acid
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Topics |
- 8,11,14-Eicosatrienoic Acid
(blood)
- Adult
- Arachidonic Acid
(blood)
- Birth Weight
(drug effects)
- Cohort Studies
- Docosahexaenoic Acids
(blood)
- Fatty Acids, Essential
(blood)
- Female
- Fetal Blood
(chemistry)
- Humans
- Infant, Newborn
- Male
- Maternal-Fetal Exchange
- Pregnancy
- Trans Fatty Acids
(toxicity)
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