This clinical trials aims to investigate the impact of parental metabolism during pregnancy on fetal epigenetic signatures.
The metabolic profiles of both parents will be evaluated through a blood sample collected from the father and an oral glucose tolerance test administered to the pregnant mother. Additionally, epigenetic signatures will be assessed using parental blood samples. Fetal epigenetic signatures can be identified by analyzing fetal cell-free DNA that circulates in the mother's bloodstream.
Pregnant women between 20 and 28 weeks of gestation
The father of the child is known and willing to participate in the study
No known underlying medical conditions in either parent
No fetal abnormalities detected in first-trimester screening, detailed fetal anatomy ultrasound, non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT), or any additional prenatal examinations performed, if applicable
Age < 18 years
Type 1 or type 2 diabetes mellitus
Pharmacological treatment affecting blood glucose levels (e.g., steroids, insulin)
Endocrine disorders (e.g., hyperthyroidism, polycystic ovary syndrome [PCOS])