Mechanisms of prenatal programing: Identifying and distinguishing the impact of steroid hormones

Thomas G. O'Connor, Emily S. Barrett

Research output: Contribution to journalShort surveypeer-review

12 Scopus citations

Abstract

Developmental programing is gaining considerable leverage as a conceptual framework for understanding individual variability in human behavioral and somatic health. The current mini-review examines some of the key conceptual and methodological challenges for developmental programing research focused on fetal sex steroid exposure and physical, behavioral, physiological, and health outcomes. Specifically, we consider the bases for focusing on sex steroids, methods for assessing prenatal steroid hormone exposure, confounding factors, and the most relevant postnatal outcomes. We conclude with a brief consideration, based on current knowledge, of the applications of the existing findings for further research and practice.

Original languageAmerican English
Article numberArticle 52
JournalFrontiers in Endocrinology
Volume5
Issue numberAPR
DOIs
StatePublished - 2014

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Endocrinology, Diabetes and Metabolism

Keywords

  • Child developmental outcomes
  • Developmental programing
  • Methodology
  • Prenatal maternal distress
  • Sex steroids

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