Effects of Gestational Metabolic Abnormalities on Placenta

The increasing prevalence of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) highlights the critical role of nutritional imbalances and metabolic disorders in its development. These conditions not only contribute to GDM but also lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes such as fetal hypothyroidism and severe morning sickness. As the vital bridge between mother and fetus, the placenta plays a pivotal role in nutrient delivery and gas exchange during metabolism. Abnormal placental morphology and function can predict maternal health risks, making GDM research particularly valuable for understanding placental impacts. This study employed secondary analysis of a clinical cohort, comparing 15 healthy controls with 30 GDM patients (divided into two groups: a daily 36g Extra Virgin Olive Oil (EVOO) supplementation group [n=15] vs. a control group [n=15]). Monitoring indicators from 24-28 weeks of gestation through delivery, we investigated GDM's effects on placental development and EVOO's therapeutic efficacy. Results demonstrated that GDM induces insulin resistance, pro-inflammatory responses, increased placental thickness, collagen/glycogen accumulation, and abnormal endocytosis-related gene expression. Conversely, EVOO intervention effectively mitigated these abnormalities while regulating maternal metabolism and inflammation, optimizing placental morphology and function. This study elucidates GDM's pathogenic mechanisms and validates EVOO's therapeutic potential as a novel nutritional strategy for GDM prevention and management.