Postnatal Nutrient Repartitioning due to Adaptive Developmental Programming

Fetal stress induces developmental adaptations that result in intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and low birthweight. These adaptations reappropriate nutrients to the most essential tissues, which benefits fetal survival. The same adaptations are detrimental to growth efficiency and carcass value in livestock, however, because muscle is disproportionally targeted. IUGR adipocytes, liver tissues, and pancreatic β-cells also exhibit functional adaptations. Identifying mechanisms underlying adaptive changes is fundamental to improving outcomes and value in low birthweight livestock. The article outlines studies that have begun to identify stress-induced fetal adaptations affecting growth, metabolism, and di fferential nutrient utilization in IUGR-born animals.
Source: Veterinary Clinics of North America: Food Animal Practice - Category: Veterinary Research Authors: Source Type: research