Grant: Project Grant

Maternal diabetes is the most common complication in pregnancy affecting up to 18% of pregnancies. Maternal diabetes increases offspring risk for developing various health problems. Population studies have demonstrated that maternal diabetes increases offspring risk to have learning and memory deficits, and behavioral issues. Maternal diabetes is associated with elevated inflammation status, which can be detrimental for the developing brain. We propose that fetal brain immune cells, which role is to protect brain from pathogens and toxins, are chronically activated and their responses are subverted and become toxic leading to reduced neuronal connections. Our study will identify the role of brain immune cells and the mechanism by how they can impair brain cells function. We will also assess whether maternal gestational diabetes differentially affects male and female offspring. Our ultimate goal is to identify targets for drug development and promote healthy brain development and, thus prevent cognitive impairments in children of mothers with gestational diabetes.