One-Carbon Metabolism and Response to Methionine Load in Healthy Young Women

K.E.M. Hospital Research Centre, Pune, India, has been involved in maternal nutrition studies. In 1999 we reported that Indian children are small at birth but big at 8 yrs. We also reported that maternal nutrition before and during pregnancy determines foetal size and composition. In 2001 we reported that maternal intake of micronutrients (green leafy vegetables, dairy products and fruits) and erythrocyte folate concentrations predict new born size and offspring adiposity. In 2003 our report was that plasma vitamin B12 and folate concentrations during pregnancy are associated with insulin resistance in the offspring. In 2005, we reported higher plasma homocysteine concentrations at 28 weeks of gestation predicts smaller offspring size in rural India, In 2007, the report was that the new born size and childhood growth is associated with cardio vascular disease risk factors at 6 yrs. of age. These informations obtained in our unit point to the critical role of one carbon metabolism and development and its sensitivity to nutritional and environmental influences affecting the fetus which impacts fetal growth and 'programming' of the metabolism of infant causing LBW. Low birth weight (LBW) is a critical problem and a major contributor to the morbidity and mortality. A strong association has been shown in adulthood between LBW and diabetes mellitus, hypertension and coronary heart disease.