Maternal-Fetal Circadian Communication During Pregnancy
Keenan Bates, Erik D. Herzog
Abstract
This article reviews evidence for maternal-fetal communication about the time of day. We explore the hypothesis that key maternal hormones synchronize daily rhythms in the fetus to regulate gestation duration. These findings may help to predict and prevent preterm birth.
Topics & Concepts
FetusCircadian rhythmGestationPregnancyHormoneMedicinePhysiologyObstetricsBiologyBioinformaticsEndocrinologyGeneticsCircadian rhythm and melatoninNeuroendocrine regulation and behaviorBirth, Development, and Health