Disparity in fetal growth between twin and singleton gestation: the role of adipokines

Objective: Twin pregnancies are characterized by unique pattern of attenuated fetal weight gain during late gestation compared with singleton gestation. The mechanism(s) responsible for regulating twin growth has not yet elucidated. Leptin and adiponectin are two adipocytokines implicated in metabolism and energy balance of fetuses, newborns and adults. Moreover, these hormones have been suggested to play a role in fetal growth. The objective of the study was to determine cord blood adiponectin and leptin in twins and singletons, with and without growth impairment. Study design: This was a case-control study. It included two groups of newborns, matched for gestational age and birth weight percentile: singleton ( n =60 newborns) and twins ( n =44 newborns). Adiponectin and leptin were determined in cord blood, and compared between the groups according to clinical and demographic characteristics. Non-parametric and parametric statistical methods were employed. Results: Median adiponectin and leptin concentrations were lower in twins vs singletons ( P