Galanin in pregnancy: Is there an association with birth weight and gestational diabetes?

OBJECTIVE: To review the actions of galanin during pregnancy and to examine the existence of an association between galanin and birthweight as well as with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

RESULTS: Galanin concentrations in maternal circulation are similar in pregnant and nonpregnant status and have been correlated with body mass index (BMI). There is evidence of an association between birthweight and galanin concentrations in amniotic fluid during second trimester and galanin concentrations in umbilical cord at term. Moreover, there is a positive correlation between maternal galanin concentrations and existence of GDM. However, galanin concentrations in fetal circulation have not been correlated with neonatal fat mass. Neonatal galanin concentrations do not differ among uncomplicated pregnancies and those complicated by GDM or intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).

CONCLUSIONS: There is evidence for an association between galanin during pregnancy with birth weight and metabolic processes. Further studies are required in order to elucidate this role. Galanin could serve as a predictor of neonatal body weight, alternations of which contribute to the development of diseases during adulthood.