Increased cord blood angiotensin II concentration is associated with decreased insulin sensitivity in the offspring of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus.

Objective: To determine cord blood angiotensin II (Ang II) concentration and assess its relationship to fetal insulin sensitivity in the offspring of mothers with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) at birth.

Methods: Thirty women with GDM and 30 healthy women were evaluated at elective cesarean delivery. Cord blood was obtained for measurement of Ang II, glucose and insulin. Homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) was calculated and used to estimate fetal insulin sensitivity.

Results: The offspring of mothers with GDM had higher ponderal index (PI), HOMA-IR and cord Ang II and insulin concentrations than the offspring of healthy mothers. Cord insulin concentration and HOMA-IR were positively associated with PI in all the offspring. Cord Ang II concentration was positively associated with HOMA-IR in the offspring of mothers with GDM.

Conclusions: Increased cord Ang II concentration is associated with decreased insulin sensitivity in the offspring of mothers with GDM.