Hormonal Determinants of Growth and Weight Gain in the Human Fetus and Preterm Infant

The factors controlling linear growth and weight gain in the human fetus and newborn infant are poorly understood. We review here the changes in linear growth, weight gain, lean body mass, and fat mass during mid- and late gestation and the early postnatal period in the context of changes in the secretion and action of maternal, placental, fetal, and neonatal hormones, growth factors, and adipocytokines. We assess the effects of hormonal determinants on placental nutrient delivery and the impact of preterm delivery on hormone expression and postnatal growth and metabolic function. We then discuss the effects of various maternal disorders and nutritional and pharmacologic interventions on fetal and perinatal hormone and growth factor production, growth, and fat deposition and consider important unresolved questions in the field.

Automated summary

This article reviews the factors affecting linear growth and weight gain in human fetuses and newborn infants, focusing on the changes in hormones and growth factors during pregnancy and the early postnatal period. It discusses the impact of these factors on placental nutrient delivery, the effects of preterm delivery on hormone expression and postnatal growth, and the influence of maternal disorders and nutritional and pharmacologic interventions on fetal growth. Important unresolved questions in the field are also examined.