Long term effects on the child of near term glucocorticoids in the fetus
Accepted version
Peer-reviewed
Repository URI
Repository DOI
Change log
Authors
Shreeve, Norman
Smith, Gordon C https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3786-3929
Abstract
The human fetal hypothalamic-pituitary axis (HPA) becomes activated as pregnancy advances towards term. This critical developmental trigger occurs in most mammalian species and results in a fetal adrenal glucocorticoid (GC) surge essential for lung maturation[1]. In addition, HPA activation also contributes to parturition and the maturation of other fetal organs. Precocious activation of GC receptors can be induced by endogenous cortisol release in response to fetal exposure to an adverse intrauterine environment, or when synthetic glucocorticoids are administered to the mother during pregnancy (antenatal maternal glucocorticoid, AMGC).
Description
Keywords
child development, neonatology, neuropathology, Child, Dexamethasone, Fetus, Glucocorticoids, Humans
Journal Title
Archives of Disease in Childhood: Fetal and Neonatal Edition
Conference Name
Journal ISSN
1359-2998
1468-2052
1468-2052
Volume Title
Publisher
BMJ Publishing Group