Diagnostic Value of Maternal Zonulin Levels in Fetal Growth Disorders

Background: Zonulin, a biomarker linked to intestinal barrier dysfunction, may contribute to fetal growth disorders such as intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) pregnancies. This study evaluated maternal serum zonulin levels as a diagnostic tool for distinguishing IUGR from SGA and investigated their associations with perinatal outcomes. Methods: This cross-sectional study included singleton pregnancies between 32 and 37 weeks. Maternal blood samples collected at 16-18 weeks of gestation were analyzed for serum zonulin levels using ELISA, with measurements performed after group classification based on the final diagnosis (IUGR, SGA, and appropriate-for-gestational-age [AGA]). Demographic, obstetric, and neonatal data were analyzed. Diagnostic performance was assessed via receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis. Results: Maternal serum zonulin levels were highest in the IUGR group, followed by SGA and AGA (p