Perinatology.  2023 Dec;34(4):157-164. 10.14734/PN.2023.34.4.157.

Prenatal Factors Influencing Long-Term Neurodevelopmental Outcomes

• Cha T
• Lee SM

• KMID: 2550366
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.14734/PN.2023.34.4.157

Abstract

The developing brain in utero is highly vulnerable to maternal and environmental influences. As a mediator of maternal and environmental signals to the fetus, epigenetic processes within the placenta are particularly powerful such that alterations of placental gene expression, downstream function, and signaling during fetal development have the potential for dramatic changes in developmental programming. This influence of intrauterine experiences has been progressively extended from the modification of fetal brain to the susceptibility to develop neurodevelopmental disorders in childhood, as well as in adulthood. In this review, we describe maternal factors such as obesity, smoking, alcohol drinking, stress, and nutrition that moderate the impact on adverse neurodevelopment conditions. And, we also have depicted maternal disease that could result poor childhood neurodevelopment. Lastly, we describe evidence linking adverse environmental variation such as pollutant, heavy metal, air pollution during the fetal period and long-term neuro developmental changes in brain structure and function. detrimental effects in the offspring. A comprehensive understanding and accurate knowledge of prenatal factors that can influence neurodevelopmental disorders are invaluable for clinicians in providing informed guidance during pregnancy and newborn care counseling. This, in turn, contributes to improved outcomes for children and families, promoting lifelong health and disease prevention for the child.

Keyword

Prenatal injuries; Fetal development; Growth and development; Environment