Umbilical cord plasma markers in gestational diabetes: evidence of fetal metaflammation, elevated GGT, and links to neonatal metabolic health

American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism 2026 Open access

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Authors: Andreas Steiner, Anna Rieder, Jasmin Zaunschirm-Strutz, Elisa Weiß, Carolina Tocantins, Bettina Amtmann, Tarek M. Moustafa, Christina Stern, Azra Kulovic-Sissawo, Ursula Hiden
DOI: 10.1152/ajpendo.00404.2025
Cited by: 1
References: 66

Abstract

Excess fetal nutrient supply in gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) results in signs of fetal metabolic inflammation (metaflammation) in umbilical cord plasma, and higher levels of γ-glutamyl transferase (GGT), a liver enzyme involved in defense against oxidative stress. The correlations of GGT levels with reduced insulin resistance, C-peptide, and leptin suggest that GGT has a positive effect on fetal metabolic health.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Gestational Diabetes Research and Management Pregnancy and preeclampsia studies Birth Development and Health

Publication details

Journal / source
American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism
Publisher
American Physiological Society
Volume
330
Issue
3
Pages
E369–E379
Publication date
4 February 2026
Language
EN