Epigenetic mechanisms: How the nine months in utero can shape offspring metabolic health

Fetal programming is the process by which intrauterine environmental conditions, particularly those of the mother, can permanently influence the physiology, metabolism, and health of the unborn child throughout life. A growing body of evidence indicates that epigenetics represents the molecular basis of fetal programming. Maternal conditions such as gestational diabetes or obesity can induce persistent “epigenetic modifications” in fetal and placental tissues. These can alter the function of organs crucial to metabolism, predisposing individuals to the future development of chronic diseases.