Prenatal iron deficiency leaves lasting changes in the developing brain
A study from the University of Rochester Medical Center indicates that prenatal iron deficiency can cause lasting, tissue-specific changes in the developing brain. Researchers found that even after iron supplementation, certain brain regions remained deficient while others showed abnormal accumulation, potentially linking early deficiency to cognitive impairments.
Why it matters
This research highlights the critical importance of maternal nutrition and suggests that current clinical standards for iron deficiency during pregnancy may need re-evaluation.
by Kelsie Smith Hayduk, University of Rochester Medical Center
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Andrew Zinin
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:
Add to Preferred Sources Credit: RDNE Stock project from Pexels During the first weeks of pregnancy, developing cells are already laying the foundation for the brain. Iron plays a major role in the organization and shaping of cells during this stage of gestation. Epidemiological studies suggest that mothers with low iron levels during the first trimester of pregnancy have a higher risk of giving birth to a child who develops cognitive impairments like autism, ADHD and learning disabilities.
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