Abstract

Objective- We demonstrated earlier that chronic maternal micronutrient restriction altered the body composition in rat offspring and may predispose them to adult onset diseases. Chromium regulates glucose and fat metabolism. The aim of this study is to determine the long term effects of maternal Cr restriction on adipose tissue development and function in a rat model.

Research design and Methods- Female, weanling WNIN rats received ad libitum, a control diet or the same with 65% restriction of Cr (CrR) for three months and mated with control males. Some pregnant CrR mothers were rehabilitated from conception or parturition and their pups weaned to control diet. While some CrR offspring were weaned to control diet, others continued on CrR diet. Various parameters were monitored in the offspring at three monthly intervals up to 15-18 months of age.

Results- Maternal Cr restriction significantly increased body weight and fat %, specially the central adiposity in both male and female offspring. Further the expression of leptin and 11β-HSD1 genes were significantly increased in CrR offspring of both the genders. Adipocytokine levels were altered in plasma and adipose tissue, circulating triglyceride and FFA levels were increased albeit in female offspring only. Rehabilitation regimes did not correct body adiposity but restored the circulating levels of lipids and adipocytokines.

Conclusions- Chronic maternal chromium restriction increased body adiposity probably due to increased stress and altered lipid metabolism in WNIN rat offspring, which may predispose them to obesity and associated diseases in their later life.