Research Axis
Fetomaternal and Neonatal Pathologies Axis
Research Theme
Fetal development and prematurity
Address
CHUSJ - Centre de Recherche
Phone
514 345-4931 #3971
Fax
514 345-4801
Our studies focus on the mechanisms underlying the developmental origins of pathologies appearing in adulthood, including hypertension. More specifically, we plan to uncover how an oxidative stress suffered during the perinatal period can alter the functional and structural development of the cardiovascular system.
Animal Research
Antenatal and neonatal factors may influence the onset of adulthood hypertension. In order to study this process, we use animal models (rats). In one of our models, the female gestating rat's diet is altered, causing a slight growth delay in the offspring, a vascular dysfunction and hypertension in adulthood. In another model, newborn rats are exposed to a high oxygen concentration within the first days of life, which also leads to vascular dysfunction and hypertension in adulthood. Lab studies investigate the mechanisms of this developmental hypertension programming, specifically targeting renal development, structure and vascular function.
Clinical Research
A mother-child cohort is studied to determine the correlation between ante- and perinatal factors, oxidative stress concentrations during pregnancy and the incidence of vascular dysfunction during childhood.
Current research project
Developmental origins of health and diseases (DOHaD) : long term cardiovascular consequences of preterm birth