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Placenta Protein May Predict Child ADHD Risk
6 Oct
Summary
- Lower placental growth factor (PlGF) linked to higher ADHD odds.
- PlGF levels in third trimester show a notable correlation.
- Placenta's role in neurodevelopmental risk begins in utero.
A new study indicates that a child's predisposition to Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) might be identifiable during pregnancy. Researchers discovered a significant link between lower levels of placental growth factor (PlGF) in the third trimester and an increased risk of a child being diagnosed with ADHD later on. This protein, produced by the placenta, is crucial for fetal development.
The study, which analyzed blood samples from 176 pregnancies, found that a decrease in PlGF levels was associated with a substantially higher chance of an ADHD diagnosis in the child. This association remained even after accounting for other pregnancy complications that have previously been linked to both reduced PlGF and ADHD.
These findings highlight the placenta's potential role in early neurodevelopmental risk. While the results are promising, the research team emphasizes the need for larger studies to confirm the connection and further investigate the underlying mechanisms. Measuring PlGF during pregnancy could potentially aid in identifying infants who might benefit from earlier developmental monitoring.
