Prenatal Low-Protein and Low-Calorie Diets Differentially Alter Arcuate Nucleus Morphology in Newborn Male Rats

ConclusionOur results show that a low-protein and low-calorie diet during the prenatal stage produces alterations in the ARC of the hypothalamus in newborn animals and, more importantly, that the effects of malnutrition are evident in males but not in females. Therefore, it is essential to follow a balanced diet during the early stages of life to ensure optimal development of the neural circuits that regulate eating.
Source: Frontiers in Neuroanatomy - Category: Neurology Source Type: research