Maternal Exercise During Pregnancy Improves Glucose Metabolism of Offspring

Abstract

The intrauterine environment during pregnancy is a critical factor in the development of diabetes and obesity in offspring. To determine the effects of maternal exercise during pregnancy on the metabolic health of offspring, 6wk old C57BL/6 virgin female mice were fed a chow or high‐fat (HF) (60%) diet and divided into 4 sub‐groups: Trained (housed with running wheels for 2wks preconception and during gestation); Pre‐Pregnancy Trained (housed with running wheels for 2wks pre‐conception); Gestation Trained (housed with running wheels during gestation); or Sedentary (static cages). Breeders were sedentary and chow‐fed. Offspring were sedentary, chow‐fed and studied for 12 months. From 6 months on, male offspring from Trained dams had decreased serum insulin concentrations, improved glucose tolerance, and decreased % body fat vs. all other groups. This improved metabolic profile occurred in offspring of both chow‐ and HF‐fed dams. Female offspring had similar responses. 12 month old offspring from Trained dams had significant changes in hepatic expression of key genes regulating Krebs cycle activity and fatty acid oxidation, suggesting liver adaptations are central for this effect. In conclusion, maternal exercise before and during pregnancy in mice has profound effects to improve the metabolic health of offspring. Thus, maternal exercise may combat the increasing rates of diabetes and obesity.