Clinical and molecular characterization of subtypes of gestational diabetes across European and South Asian Birth Cohorts

Gestational diabetes (diabetes during pregnancy) does not affect all women in the same way. In some women, it occurs alongside higher body weight; in others, it mainly affects fasting blood sugar levels or sugar levels after meals. For some, blood sugar levels are high throughout the day. These differences may not only reflect distinct lifestyles, but also distinct underlying biological causes. However, current care generally treats all women with gestational diabetes in the same way.
In our previous research in two Canadian birth cohorts, we identified four different types of gestational diabetes. Each type was linked to different pregnancy complications, such as higher risk of caesarean section, hypertension during pregnancy. We also found that markers in a mother’s blood during pregnancy can help explain how her blood sugar levels influence her baby’s growth.
In this project, we will use data from the Born in Bradford study, which includes detailed health and biological information from mothers and children, to confirm these different types of gestational diabetes and better understand the biological pathways behind them. We will also study how these different types affect the long-term health of both mothers and their children.
Ultimately, this research aims to improve care during and after pregnancy by identifying those at higher risk of complications and supporting more personalised approaches to prevention and treatment of gestational diabetes.