How a low-protein diet during pregnancy affects hormone levels in offspring

Gestational Low-Protein diet Programming on Sex Steroid Hormone Synthesis

['FUNDING_R03'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11139278

This study is looking at how a low-protein diet during pregnancy might affect the chances of developing lean Type 2 Diabetes in kids, using rats to see how this diet impacts hormone levels and metabolism, with hopes of finding ways to help prevent these issues in people.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R03']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11139278 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the impact of a low-protein diet during pregnancy on the development of metabolic diseases in offspring, particularly focusing on lean Type 2 Diabetes (T2D). Using a rat model, the study examines how nutritional stress affects sex steroid hormone synthesis, including testosterone and estradiol levels. The researchers will explore the underlying mechanisms, particularly the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in metabolic functions and hormone production. By understanding these processes, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for preventing metabolic diseases in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of metabolic diseases or those who experienced nutritional stress during pregnancy.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of metabolic diseases or who were not affected by maternal nutritional conditions during pregnancy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing metabolic diseases linked to maternal nutrition during pregnancy.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that maternal nutrition significantly impacts offspring health, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.

Where this research is happening

HOUSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: adult onset diabetes, Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.