Evaluation of the role of galectin-1 in gestational Diabetes mellitus

Abstract

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM), impaired glucose tolerance that appears or is diagnosed in pregnancy, increases the risk for both mother and fetus. Its ethiology is multifactorial and obesity is one of its main risk factors. Galectin-1 (Gal-1), a ²-galactoside binding lectin, seems to play multiple roles in pregnancy. It exerts has an important modulatory effect on trophoblast growth and differentiation and controls inflammatory reactions and the angiogenic process. In addition, Gal-1 is involved in maternal-fetal tolerance, in synergy with progesterone. Impaired production of Gal-1 has been detected in different obstetric disorders, as well as in systemic diseases such as Diabetes Mellitus (DM). Recent studies indicate that besides trophoblast and immune cells, adipose tissue also secretes Gal-1, suggesting that this lectin could be involved in the pathophisiology of obesity and GDM. Gal-1, as well as adiponectin and IL-10 have an anti-inflammatory effect. Although the relationship between Gal-1 and IL-10 is well-known, the role of adiponectin in this interaction has not been investigated, nor the correlation between Gal-1 and maternal obesity or GDM. The main objective of this study is to evaluate the role of Gal-1 in the development of GDM and its relationship with obesity. As a secondary objective, we aim to analyse the participation of IL-10 and adiponectin in this process. (AU)