Abstract
The pancreas has an essential role in the regulation of glucose homeostasis by secreting insulin, the only hormone with a blood glucose lowering effect in mammals. Several circulating molecules are able to positively or negatively influence insulin secretion. Among them, nutrients such as fatty acids or amino acids can directly act on specific receptors present on pancreatic beta cells. Dietary intake, especially excessive nutrient intake, is known to modify energy balance in adults, resulting in pancreatic dysfunction. However, gestation and lactation are critical periods for fetal development and pup growth and specific dietary nutrients are required for optimal growth. Feeding alterations during these periods will impact offspring development and increase the risk of developing metabolic disorders in adulthood, leading to metabolic programming. This review will focus on the influence of nutrient intake during gestation and lactation periods on pancreas development and function in offspring, highlighting the molecular mechanism of imprinting on this organ.
Highlights
The importance of well balanced, high quality nutrition during gestation and lactation periods is essential to the proper development of the fetus and the baby
We focus on the effects of maternal dietary intake during pregnancy and lactation on offspring glucose metabolism and pancreas structure
Dynamic assessment of insulin secretory response to glucose infusion (GSIS) does not show important perturbations of basal insulin secretion in islets originated from female offspring born to mothers fed with HF during gestation and lactation but glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS) is significantly reduced in both first and second phase of insulin release when stimulated with 20 mM glucose [50]
Summary
The importance of well balanced, high quality nutrition during gestation and lactation periods is essential to the proper development of the fetus and the baby. New pancreatic beta cells are formed between birth and the fully developed young adult [2]. Nowadays, eating habits have changed with the availability of ultra-processed foods and the emergence of new specific diets, such as veganism or gluten-free diet. Nutrients 2019, 11, x FOR PEER REVIEW the availability of ultra-processed foods and the emergence of new specific diets, such as veganism. Food quality varies widely, with the consumption of more fat, sugar, salt or preservatives. As the pancreas continues to develop after birth, it is important to understand the impact of theseAsnew dietary challenges its development the consequences onthe glucose preservatives. The pancreas continues toon develop after birth, it and is important to understand impact metabolism in adulthood. Of these new dietary challenges on its development and the consequences on glucose metabolism in adulthood
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
