Scientists reveal the reasons for low birth weight

Low birth weight babies later in life may bring about a series of trouble, and even death.
Two scientific research shows that in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, certain elements will affect the growth of the placenta, which may lead to low birth weight. Placenta is a bond linking the mother and the fetus is responsible for transport of various nutrients. The larger the placenta to transport more nutrients, it also heavier weight of the newborn, the body also more healthy. However, if the newborn low birth weight, it could lead to coronary heart disease, Ⅱ type diabetes, stroke or respiratory disease, severe after birth may lead to death within a few weeks. According to the British "Nature" magazine, two independent research groups on neonatal birth weight and the link between early development of the fetus were studied. Cambridge University research team found that in the first 12 weeks of pregnancy, plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and low levels of low birth weight related. PAPP-A play a role only in early pregnancy, it can promote acceptance of the placenta called insulin-like growth factor (IGF) hormones. This hormone can promote the growth of the placenta.
Another research team discovered a gene can affect birth weight. , Called Igf2 gene in fetal and placental expression of the body to produce IGF-Ⅱ protein. The researchers found that the placenta in the absence of IGF-Ⅱ protein in mice's weight at birth on average 30% lighter than normal mice. Previously, the medical profession there is no effective means of early detection of pregnancy is the future of low-weight newborns. Scientists believe that by examining the relevant elements, it is possible to predict birth weight.