Acute resveratrol exposure does not impact hemodynamics of the fetal sheep

Babies born growth restricted are at an increased risk of both poor short-and long-term outcomes. Current interventions to improve fetal growth are ineffective and do not lower the lifetime risk of poor health status. Maternal resveratrol (RSV) treatment increases uterine artery blood flow, fetal oxygenation, and fetal weight. However, studies suggest that diets high in polyphenols such as RSV may impair fetal hemodynamics. We aimed to characterize the effect of RSV on fetal hemodynamics to further assess its safety as an intervention strategy. Pregnant ewes underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans to measure blood flow and oxygenation within the fetal circulation using phase contrast-MRI and T-2 oximetry. Blood flow and oxygenation measures were performed in a basal state and then repeated while the fetus was exposed to RSV. Fetal blood pressure and heart rate were not different between states. RSV did not impact fetal oxygen delivery (DO2) or consumption (VO2). Blood flow and oxygen delivery throughout the major vessels of the fetal circulation were not different between basal and RSV states. As such, acute exposure of the fetus to RSV does not directly impact fetal hemodynamics. This strengthens the rationale for the use of RSV as an intervention strategy against fetal growth restriction.

Automated summary

Babies born with reduced growth face increased risk of poor outcomes. Current interventions are ineffective in improving fetal growth. Resveratrol treatment increases blood flow and oxygenation in the uterus, but high polyphenol diets may negatively affect fetal hemodynamics. This study assessed the safety of resveratrol as an intervention for fetal growth restriction.