Understanding Early Childhood Obesity Risk in Babies with Intrauterine Growth Issues A Study of DNA Changes and T-Cell Function in Newborns and Toddlers

What this Trial Is About

This research aims to understand how early childhood obesity develops in babies born with intrauterine growth restriction IUGR, who are at higher risk for obesity and metabolic problems later in life. The study explores changes in DNA methylation of CD3 T-cells, a type of immune cell, to uncover molecular mechanisms behind this developmental programming. It also examines how these changes relate to childhood body fat and health outcomes. The study observes two groups of infants those with IUGR and those who are appropriate for gestational age AGA. There are no treatments or interventions given instead, researchers collect and analyze blood samples from the infants at birth, 12 months, and 24 months. They study the DNA methylation patterns and T-cell function to compare differences between the two groups over time. Participants will be followed from birth up to 24 months of age, with evaluations of growth speed, immune cell function, and DNA changes at specified ages. Cord blood and peripheral blood samples are collected to measure these factors. The study measures growth velocity, DNA methylation of CD3 T-cells, and T-cell function at different time points to understand the relationship between early immune changes and childhood obesity risk.

Early Childhood Obesity Programming by Intrauterine Growth Restriction