Exploring Biomarkers in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Comprehensive Review

1. Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Biochemistry, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. 2. Consultant Biochemist and Quality Manager, Department of Laboratory Medicine, MGM Healthcare Private Limited, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. 3. Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Sri Ramachandra Institute of Higher Education and Research, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.

Abstract

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a common complication during pregnancy, typically diagnosed in the second or third trimester. Factors such as advanced maternal age, obesity and a sedentary lifestyle contribute to its prevalence. The pathophysiology involves insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, gluconeogenesis, adipose tissue dysfunction, gut microbiota dysbiosis and oxidative stress. GDM is associated with maternal and neonatal complications, both short-term and long-term. Managing GDM requires interventions such as medication, dietary adjustments and regular physical activity. However, early detection in low-risk populations remains challenging. The Oral Glucose Tolerance Test (OGTT) is the gold standard for diagnosis but is limited by its inconvenience and reliance on multiple blood samples. The present review focuses on novel biomarkers for early and accurate GDM diagnosis. It discusses emerging biomarkers such as vitamin D, vitamin B9, vitamin B12, preptin, angiopoietin-like protein 8, adiponectin, chemerin, omentin-1, leptin, Interleukin-6 (IL-6), homocysteine, C-peptide, irisin, adropin, nesfatin-1, Afamin, fetuin A, amylin, galectin, osteocalcin, resistin, visfatin and Fatty Acid-binding Protein 4 (FABP4). The review explores the pathophysiology of these biomarkers in GDM and presents preliminary study findings.

Pregnancy, Gestational diabetes, Prediction, Biomarkers

The GDM is a common medical condition that occurs during pregnancy and is characterised by any degree of glucose intolerance first detected during pregnancy, but not clearly overt diabetes. It is usually diagnosed in the second or third trimester (1),(2). The global prevalence of GDM is 16%, with varying rates across countries. India has the highest prevalence at 29.3% (3). Factors contributing to the development of GDM, similar to those for diabetes, include insulin resistance, β-cell dysfunction, gluconeogenesis, adipose tissue dysfunction, gut microbiota dysbiosis and oxidative stress (4).

Pathophysiology of GDM

Several factors, including genetic, environmental and nutritional influences, along with insulin resistance and β-cell dysfunction, may contribute to the development of GDM (5). β-cell dysfunction can occur when β-cells fail to accurately sense blood glucose levels or produce enough insulin (6). Pregnancy-induced insulin hyperplasia, which is caused by maternal obesity and placental hormones, can lead to insulin resistance. Pancreatic β-cells compensate for this by increasing insulin production; however, some women develop GDM due to an insufficient pancreatic response (7).

Insulin resistance is a condition in which cells fail to respond effectively to insulin because of impaired insulin signalling, resulting in inadequate translocation of Glucose Transporter-4 (GLUT4). GLUT4 is crucial for transporting glucose into cells for energy production. In GDM, insulin-stimulated glucose absorption is reduced by 54% compared to normal pregnancies. Insulin signalling is hindered by decreased tyrosine phosphorylation or increased serine/threonine phosphorylation of the insulin receptor. GDM is associated with altered expression or phosphorylation of downstream insulin signalling pathways, including GLUT4, Phosphoinositide-3-Kinase (PI3K) and Insulin Receptor Substrate (IRS)-1. Placental hormones play a crucial role in inducing insulin resistance [6,8]. (Table/Fig 1) illustrates the pathophysiology of normal and GDM pregnancies.

Current Diagnostic Modality

The OGTT is a standard diagnostic method for GDM in pregnant women, performed between 24 and 28 weeks of gestation. The International Association of Diabetes in Pregnancy Study Groups (IADPSG) criteria serve as the foundation for GDM diagnosis (9). However, the lack of early screening methods, especially for low-risk populations, poses a challenge, as substantial foetal adiposity may have already developed by the time of diagnosis, contributing to maternal and neonatal complications, as shown in (Table/Fig 2) (5). There is no universally accepted reference test for GDM diagnosis due to the varying diagnostic criteria used by different countries, as presented in (Table/Fig 3) (10),(11),(12). The OGTT is considered the gold standard, but its reliability, speed and convenience raise concerns. The 75 g OGTT recommended by the IADPSG is significant but cumbersome due to its sampling requirements (13),(14). There is a pressing need for novel, accurate and timely diagnostic approaches for GDM. The present review emphasises the importance of exploring novel biomarkers from existing literature to enhance diagnostic methods.

The biomarkers observed during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy, identified from the literature and their roles in GDM, are presented. Among these biomarkers, some are novel discoveries, while others may have been previously known but studied in contexts other than GDM.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D, a fat-soluble secosteroid also known as calciferol, is synthesised in the liver and kidneys through hydroxylation after exposure to sunlight (15). It affects calcium channels and tissues such as the gut, vascular smooth muscle, pancreatic β-cells and monocytes. Vitamin D deficiency is linked to decreased levels of collagen type I, osteoblast activity, parathyroid hormone secretion, muscle function and insulin secretion (16). Cholecalciferol increases Ca2+ influx, impacting insulin production in β-cells and leading to insulin exocytosis. Vitamin D deficiency is also associated with impaired glucose tolerance, primary hyperparathyroidism and Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) (17).

Soheilykhah S et al., suggest that vitamin D deficiency may elevate the risk of GDM due to its effects on insulin production, activity and sensitivity, potentially influencing β-cell function and secretion (18). Amrein K et al., recommend that pregnant women with vitamin D levels below 40 ng/mL should be supplemented with 400-600 IU of vitamin D daily to prevent adverse outcomes (19). A strong relationship has been observed between low vitamin D levels and the risk of GDM, with individuals with vitamin D deficiency having a 26% greater chance of developing GDM (20),(21),(22). A randomised controlled trial found that calcium-based vitamin D supplementation reduced caesarean sections, maternal hospitalisations, macrosomia, hyperbilirubinemia and neonatal hospitalisations in women with GDM (23). Zhang Q et al., found that administering 50,000 IU of vitamin D every two weeks decreased insulin resistance without affecting inflammation or triglyceride levels (24).

Previous research emphasises that prenatal vitamin D intake is crucial and routine screening can help assess the risk of GDM in individuals. In contrast to GDM, more research has been conducted on vitamin D, yet its exact mechanism behind GDM is not fully understood.

Vitamin B9

Vitamin B9, commonly known as folate, is a group of water-soluble vitamins essential for cell division and one-carbon metabolism. It is used in food fortification and supplements, with 5-methyltetrahydrofolate being the primary type found in plasma. Elevated folate levels can affect β-cell function and promote insulin differentiation in pig pancreatic stem cells. However, excessive doses can decrease cell growth and survival (25),(26).

Chen X et al., revealed that pregnancies complicated by GDM have higher levels of folate and vitamin B12 and supplementation with folic acid increases the risk of GDM (27). Studies have found a robust correlation between early pregnancy levels of vitamin B12 and folate (28),(29). Research on vitamin B9, including animal studies supporting its role in β-cell function, is limited (27),(28), indicating a need for further human studies on its role in the pathophysiology of GDM.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is crucial for physiological processes like cell division, DNA synthesis and amino acid metabolism, particularly during pregnancy (30). It plays a vital role in the remethylation of homocysteine to methionine and the mitochondrial conversion of methylmalonyl-CoA to succinyl-CoA for energy production (31). A deficiency in B12 can lead to functional folate deficiency and impaired DNA synthesis, potentially contributing to insulin resistance. Women with GDM have reduced mitochondrial activity, which is linked to increased methylation of the D-loop region of the mitochondrial genome (32). Vitamin B12 deficiency can negatively affect DNA and cell metabolism, leading to reduced enzyme activity and impacting liver coenzyme A and glucose breakdown. Monitoring vitamin B12 levels is essential, especially in individuals with T2DM, as diminished levels can impair the maintenance of enzyme systems (33).

Wang L et al., revealed a connection between GDM and lower serum concentrations of vitamin B12 (34). Low levels during the second or third trimester increase the risk, especially among Asians, while adequate vitamin B12 status reduces the risk of GDM. However, higher maternal blood levels in early pregnancy may elevate this risk (35). Kanwal A et al., unveiled significant variations in vitamin B12 levels, with low glutathione peroxidase and high homocysteine levels associated with GDM (36).

Preptin

Preptin, an E-peptide derived from proinsulin-like growth factor II, is co-secreted with insulin in islet β-cell granules in response to glucose, enhancing glucose-mediated insulin production. Individuals with metabolic disorders such as GDM, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), T2DM and impaired glucose tolerance often have elevated preptin levels. A study by Cheng KC et al., indicated that preptin influences insulin secretion by activating the protein kinase C/phospholipase C (PKC/PLC) pathway and affecting signal transduction through the Insulin-like Growth Factor 2 Receptor (IGF2R) (37). Additionally, a 2019 study suggested that high preptin levels in insulin-resistant patients may indicate a link between preptin and glucose-lipid metabolism, potentially contributing to insulin resistance (38).

Research by Kirac UI et al., found that individuals with elevated serum preptin levels have a higher risk of developing GDM (39). However, another study found that maternal serum preptin levels were comparable to those of non GDM control subjects, while cord blood preptin levels were lower (40). Preptin appears to be a novel hormone. Despite limited research, studies suggest that preptin is related to insulin resistance and is synthesised in response to glucose. Further research is warranted to elucidate its role in the pathogenesis of GDM.

Angiopoietin Like Protein 8

Angiopoietin-like 8 (ANGPTL8) is a 22-kDa peptide primarily synthesised in the liver and adipose tissues of humans. It plays a crucial role in lipid and glucose metabolism by enhancing insulin sensitivity, promoting glycogen production and improving glucose tolerance (41). Additionally, ANGPTL8 regulates lipid metabolism by inhibiting the action of lipoprotein lipase, thereby increasing triglyceride levels and reducing serum-free fatty acid levels. It is also known by several alternative names, such as betatrophin, Refeeding Induced Fat and Liver (RIFL) protein and lipasin (42).

Furthermore, ANGPTL8 decreases fasting blood glucose levels and enhances glucose tolerance. Overexpression of ANGPTL8 inhibits gluconeogenesis, suggesting a role in suppressing hepatic gluconeogenesis (43). Seyhanli Z et al., found a significant correlation between ANGPTL8 levels and insulin resistance, suggesting ANGPTL8’s potential as a biomarker for GDM (44).

Adiponectin

Adiponectin, an anti-inflammatory adipokine, plays a crucial role in lipid and glucose metabolism, inflammation, cell apoptosis and angiogenesis. In women with GDM, lower maternal levels of adiponectin are associated with higher birth weights, potentially contributing to insulin resistance and foetal overgrowth (45). Studies in rodents have demonstrated that full-length adiponectin inhibits foetal growth, while its absence results in enlargement (46). Adiponectin interacts with receptors AdipoR1 and AdipoR2, activating signalling pathways like AMP-activated Protein Kinase (AMPK) and Peroxisome Proliferator-activated Receptor (PPAR) α. This interaction facilitates GLUT4 translocation, leading to cellular responses, including glucose suppression, lipogenesis, inflammation modulation, glucose uptake, fatty acid oxidation and enhanced insulin sensitivity (47).

Additionally, adiponectin suppresses the production of amino acids and nutrient transporters like GLUT-1 in human villous cytotrophoblasts. Studies have shown that decreased adiponectin levels in the placentas of women with GDM, coupled with increased maternal Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1), activate insulin/IGF-1 signalling pathways, potentially impacting foetal development (46). Early in pregnancy, women diagnosed with GDM exhibit lower levels of adiponectin, which are correlated with visceral adiposity and glucose control (48).

Chemerin

Chemerin, classified as a novel adipokine, plays a crucial role in regulating glucose and fat metabolism. It originates from the retinoic acid receptor responder 2 gene and initially exists as a 163-amino acid inactive preproprotein (45). Chemerin functions by modulating proinflammatory cytokines and contributing to adipocyte differentiation. Impairment of chemerin receptors can lead to diminished glucose tolerance, obesity and reduced levels of proinflammatory cytokines in adipose tissue (49).

Wang X et al., have highlighted that chemerin levels are positively correlated with inflammatory markers like TNF-alpha and IL-6. Women with GDM have higher plasma chemerin levels compared to normal pregnant women (50). Studies have shown that mutations affecting rs4721 (Beta-2 adrenergic-receptor gene) and rs17173608 (Fat-mass and obesity-associated gene) polymorphisms in the Chinese population are associated with decreased plasma chemerin levels, a low Homeostatic Model Assessment for Insulin Resistance (HOMA-IR) score and protection against the development of GDM (51). A case-control study found higher chemerin messenger Ribonucleic Acid (mRNA) and protein expression in the placenta, adipose tissue and umbilical cord blood in women with GDM compared to the normal group (52).

Omentin-1

Omentin-1, an adipokine, is crucial for controlling microbiota across various organs and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Impaired production of omentin-1 is linked to coronary artery disease, insulin resistance and diabetes. It enhances insulin sensitivity and facilitates glucose absorption, ensuring adequate levels for maintaining insulin sensitivity and metabolic balance (49).

Interventions targeting weight loss in individuals with T2DM and obesity have been shown to elevate omentin-1 levels (53).

Franz M et al., found that omentin-1 levels decrease during pregnancy, with women of higher Body Mass Index (BMI) showing lower levels. Offspring of diabetic women also have lower omentin-1 levels. The study suggests that altered insulin sensitivity during pregnancy could lead to decreased levels in the third trimester (54). Overall, omentin-1 appears to be more closely associated with BMI and obesity than directly with insulin and glucose homeostasis.

Leptin

Leptin, an adipokine, is closely associated with insulin resistance and obesity. It regulates food intake and correlates with adipocyte mass. During pregnancy, leptin levels peak around the 28th week of gestation and women diagnosed with GDM show increased levels of circulating leptin and higher leptin messenger RNA expression (55). Leptin regulates glucose homeostasis and increases during pregnancy due to changes in maternal fat stores and glucose metabolism. It directly impacts whole-body insulin sensitivity by regulating gluconeogenesis in skeletal muscle and the liver. Studies suggest that leptin acutely inhibits insulin secretion (56). Xiao WQ et al., highlighted that women with GDM have higher concentrations of leptin compared to those without GDM and circulating leptin levels are notably elevated in women with GDM compared to normal pregnant women (57).

Interleukin-6 (IL-6)

The IL-6 an inflammatory cytokine, is released by various cell types and plays a crucial role in regulating inflammation, insulin resistance, the immune system, obesity and type 2 diabetes. It may contribute to GDM by promoting adipose tissue expansion, inflammation, or release from the placenta (45).

Women with GDM typically have elevated levels of IL-6 compared to those of normal pregnant women. During pregnancy, IL-6 secretion by the placenta may increase in response to hyperleptinemia. Research suggests that IL-6 could serve as a valuable biomarker for early glucose intolerance screening. GDM can induce insulin resistance due to heightened IL-6 levels and leptin stimulates monocytes via Mitogen-Activated Protein Kinase/Extracellular Signal-regulated Kinase (MAPK/ERK) signalling pathways, enhancing IL-6 production (58). Amirian A et al., found a significant association between IL-6 levels and GDM, suggesting that assessing serum IL-6 levels could serve as a new diagnostic biomarker for GDM (59).

Homocysteine

Homocysteine, a sulfur-containing amino acid produced from the hydrolysis of S-adenosylhomocysteine, plays a crucial role in one-carbon metabolism within the methionine cycle and is linked to various pathological conditions, including diabetic vascular disease, insulin resistance, thrombotic events and premature arterial atherosclerotic disease (60). Homocysteine levels are typically lower during normal pregnancies; however, hyperhomocysteinemia can lead to pregnancy complications such as recurrent miscarriages, hypertension, preterm delivery, GDM, placental abruption and foetal growth restriction (61).

Zhang X et al., suggest that elevated homocysteine levels decrease the insulin receptor alpha and beta subunits, thereby affecting insulin sensitivity. Treatment with homocysteine reduces the protein levels of these subunits, contributing to insulin resistance and diabetes. The cysteine-homocysteinylation mechanism of the pro-insulin receptor is proposed as the underlying mechanism. Inhibiting cysteine-homocysteine interactions in the endoplasmic reticulum may improve insulin sensitivity and help prevent insulin resistance (62). Studies have found higher homocysteine levels in women with GDM (63),(64). Additionally, vitamin B12 insufficiency is linked to increased homocysteine levels and lower glutathione peroxidase levels (36).

C-Peptide

The short polypeptide known as the connecting peptide (C-peptide), which consists of 31 amino acids, is responsible for linking the A and B chains of proinsulin. It has a half-life of 20-30 minutes, making it more stable than insulin (65). C-peptide’s physiological functions include acting as a structural bridge, stimulating Sodium–potassium Adenosine triphosphatase (Na+-K+-ATPase), modifying endothelial nitric oxide synthase and inducible nitric oxide synthase, influencing intracellular signalling, gene transcription, glucose metabolism, thrombotic events and lipid metabolism (66). Beyond its structural roles, it also exhibits biological activity by attaching to G-protein-dependent receptors on cell membranes, modulating gene transcription and nuclear processes and demonstrating insulin-mimetic properties that regulate hyperglycaemia and glucose metabolism in diabetes (65).

Yang X et al., found a correlation between GDM and early pregnancy serum C-peptide levels, suggesting that C-peptide could be a reliable biomarker for predicting GDM risk in early pregnancy (67). While the functional properties of C-peptide are not fully understood, its role as an indicator of GDM in early pregnancy warrants further investigation.

Irisin

Irisin, a neurokine, myokine and adipokine produced by the fibronectin type III domain containing-5 gene, regulates energy consumption and glucose metabolism by converting white adipose tissue into brown adipose tissue (68). It acts as an anti-diabetic hormone by decreasing insulin resistance, increasing insulin sensitivity, reducing body weight, improving glucose tolerance, enhancing lipolysis, promoting the browning of white adipocytes, increasing GLUT4 expression and stimulating β-cell regeneration. Irisin secretion is upregulated by exercise and downregulated by hyperglycaemia and high fatty acid concentrations (69). Irisin is implicated in metabolic disorders such as obesity, lipid metabolism disorders, cardiovascular disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome, T2DM and non alcoholic fatty liver disease (70). Studies show that irisin levels are significantly lower in women with GDM compared to normal pregnant women, possibly due to insulin resistance or high oestrogen levels [40,49]. Further research is needed to fully understand irisin’s role in GDM during early pregnancy.

Adropin

Adropin, a regulatory protein present in the pancreas, liver, brain, kidneys and umbilical vein, is involved in preventing insulin resistance and obesity, as well as maintaining glucose and lipid homeostasis. Elevated levels of adropin have been observed in patients with T2DM, suggesting a potential role in the pathophysiology of GDM (71). A meta-analysis revealed increased maternal serum adropin levels in patients with GDM compared to a control group. These elevated levels were particularly notable during the first and last trimesters of pregnancy (72). A recent study found that patients with first-degree obesity in the third trimester had higher levels of adropin compared to those with third-degree obesity, suggesting that a lower Body Mass Index (BMI) may lead to endogenous adropin production, which protects against insulin resistance and hyperglycaemia (73).

Nesfatin-1

Nesfatin-1, an 82-amino acid peptide derived from nucleobindin-2, is secreted by peripheral organs and tissues and regulates hunger, satiety and body weight. It is primarily expressed in the hypothalamus and influences blood glucose levels in patients with diabetes (74). Nesfatin-1 plays a crucial role in carbohydrate metabolism by enhancing glucose-induced insulin release, stimulating pre-proinsulin mRNA expression and inhibiting glucagon secretion. It is localised in pancreatic β-islets in mice and rats and has an antihyperglycemic effect when administered to hyperglycemic animals (71). A study found that low maternal serum Nesfatin-1 levels were associated with a higher risk of developing GDM, with a 6.1 times higher likelihood of developing GDM in women with GDM compared to healthy pregnant women (75).

Afamin

Afamin, a liver-expressed albumin protein, is associated with the development of T2DM. It also contributes to oxidative stress and insulin resistance, which increase during pregnancy and are strongly linked to GDM (76). Tramontana A et al., highlighted that women with GDM have higher median afamin concentrations, which serve as a robust predictor for GDM (77). Similarly, Li Q et al., revealed that elevated afamin levels show higher sensitivity and specificity for GDM diagnosis and are positively correlated with HOMA-IR values and insulin levels. These findings suggest a potential role for afamin in pregnancy-related metabolic disorders (78).

Fetuin-A

Fetuin A, a member of the cystatin fetuin family and also known as a glycoprotein, is a naturally occurring inhibitor of the insulin receptor tyrosine kinase. It is released by adipose tissue and the liver. Fetuin A is linked to atherogenic lipid profiles, T2DM, insulin resistance, fat accumulation and metabolic syndrome (79). Plasma concentrations of fetuin A are significantly increased in women with GDM compared to those with Normal Glucose Tolerance (NGT) controls, with levels rising from the first to the second trimester (80). Jin C et al., found that women with GDM had higher plasma fetuin A concentrations, which are associated with changes in insulin resistance, fasting insulin levels and β-cell activity (81). This suggests that fetuin A could serve as a biomarker for predicting the risk of GDM. The highest concentrations were linked to an increased risk of developing GDM.

Amylin

Amylin, a hormone released by pancreatic β-cells, plays a significant role in suppressing glucagon release, regulating glucose metabolism and controlling stomach emptying. It is predominantly found in the islets of Langerhans in over 90% of patients with T2DM and constitutes the primary component of amyloid. The development of T2DM is attributed to amylin fibrils inducing β-cell cytotoxicity, which leads to intracellular ion imbalances, membrane damage and β-cell death (71). However, more studies are needed to validate the potential relationship between amylin and the development of GDM due to insufficient data.

Galectin

Galectins are a diverse family of lectins with broad specificity, involved in cell-matrix adhesion, cell-cell interactions and transmembrane signalling. They play roles in angiogenesis, maternal immune responses and placentation during pregnancy. A total 10 of the 16 classes of galectins are found in humans, predominantly in placental tissue. Galectin-1 and -3 are decreased in the placentas of patients with GDM, while the role of galectin-2 remains uncertain (49). Pelech A et al., found that the immunomodulatory protein galectin-9 binds to GLUT-2, an essential component of pancreatic β-cells and regulates glucose homeostasis (82). Research by Buschmann C et al., indicates that, compared to the healthy control group, placentas affected by GDM exhibit overexpression of galectin-12 in the nucleus of the syncytiotrophoblast and the extravillous trophoblast (83). Furthermore, investigations are needed to elucidate the specific role of galectin-12 in the placenta and its association with GDM.

Osteocalcin

Osteocalcin, a non collagenous protein found in bone, plays a role in regulating fat and glucose metabolism. It indirectly lowers blood glucose levels by promoting the utilisation of glucose by the liver, adipocytes and muscle tissues, or by increasing insulin release from pancreatic β-cells (84). A meta-analysis revealed increased levels of osteocalcin in women with GDM compared to normal pregnant women (85). Osteocalcin exists in three main forms: undercarboxylated Osteocalcin (ucOC), total Osteocalcin (tOC) and carboxylated osteocalcin (cOC). While pregnant individuals with and without GDM showed no significant changes in serum tOC concentrations, women with GDM exhibited significantly elevated serum levels of ucOC (86).

Resistin

Resistin, a proinflammatory adipokine produced in various cells, has been shown to inhibit insulin’s effects in mice. It is associated with metabolic syndrome, inflammation, diabetes and obesity, contributing to the pathophysiology of GDM by reducing insulin sensitivity, elevating plasma glucose concentrations and inhibiting glucose absorption (49). Bawah AT et al., conducted a study during the first trimester of pregnancy and found that women with GDM had a significant increase in serum resistin levels compared to non GDM women (87). Additionally, a meta-analysis further supports the link between maternal serum resistin levels and the risk of GDM (88).

Visfatin

Visfatin, primarily produced by visceral adipose tissue in both mice and humans, is also known as a pre-B cell colony-enhancing factor and nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase. It plays a significant role in energy homeostasis and the development of GDM and is expressed in various tissues (89). Prior studies have revealed that patients with GDM exhibit higher levels of visfatin, particularly during the first trimester of pregnancy (90). Furthermore, a similar survey by Bawah AT et al., supports these findings (87). These results suggest that elevated visfatin levels during gestation could serve as a novel biomarker for the early detection of GDM.

Fatty Acid-binding Protein 4

Fatty Acid-Binding Protein 4 (FABP4) is a lipid-binding protein found in adipose tissue and mature adipocytes. It enhances fatty acid transport and regulates lipid metabolism. FABP4 is associated with obesity, insulin resistance and T2DM, with higher levels observed in GDM (91). A study by Ron I et al., found FABP4 expression in the white adipose tissues of pregnant women with GDM and those who were normoglycemic, with increased secretion from visceral white adipose tissues in GDM patients (92). Neutralising FABP4 reduced glucagon-stimulated hepatic glucose production (85),(92).

The biomarkers observed during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy, identified from the literature and their roles in GDM are presented in (Table/Fig 4) (17),(26),(32),(38),(43),(47),(49),(51),(53),(56),(58),(62),(67),(69),(71),(73),(76),(79),(82),(84),(89),(92). The present review provides an overview of GDM, focusing on its pathophysiology, complications, diagnosis and prediction. It emphasises the importance of early diagnosis and highlights the significance of existing biomarkers in the prediction and diagnosis of GDM. The present review will aid researchers in the initial stages of their literature review by outlining existing biomarkers for diagnosing and predicting GDM.

Conclusion

Among the biomarkers evaluated, preptin, homocysteine, C-peptide and vitamin D appear to be promising indicators for predicting the risk of GDM and for identifying high-risk individuals due to their strong association with the pathophysiology of GDM. Vitamin D has been studied extensively, but its exact mechanism remains unclear. Preptin and homocysteine are linked to insulin secretion and signalling pathways. However, the number of studies on these biomarkers is limited, necessitating larger sample size studies, meta-analyses and clinical trials. These biomarkers show potential for predicting GDM risk and identifying high-risk individuals, but further research is needed to explore additional adipokines and biomarkers.

The review underscores the importance of early pregnancy stages, particularly between 8 and 15 weeks, to improve the accuracy and timeliness of GDM detection. It suggests that microRNAs, which are being studied for various diseases, could help uncover the pathogenesis and mechanisms of GDM. However, the review primarily focuses on inflammation and protein biomarkers, neglecting genetic markers and their diverse physiological functions, which represents a limitation.

DOI and Others

Doi: 10.7860/JCDR/2024/73856.20243

Date of Submission: Jun 26, 2024
Date of Peer Review: Jul 25, 2024
Date of Acceptance: Aug 22, 2024
Date of Publishing: Nov 01, 2024

AUTHOR DECLARATION:
• Financial or Other Competing Interests: None
• Was informed consent obtained from the subjects involved in the study? No
• For any images presented appropriate consent has been obtained from the subjects. No

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EMENDATIONS: 6