On Oct. 8, researchers from the University of Michigan and other institutions published a study linking maternal oxidative stress to child neurodevelopmental, emotional and behavioral issues. U-M researchers collaborated with researchers from the University of Puerto Rico, Northeastern University, Yale University and the University of Georgia to assess the effect of dysregulation of bioactive lipids in 259 mother-child pairs in Puerto Rico.
Bioactive lipids signal molecules that send messages between cells and generally maintain relative stability in the body. However, their dysregulation can cause inflammation, cardiovascular issues and metabolic disorders. According to the study, higher levels of pro-inflammatory lipids can lead to mental health and behavioral issues in children, while higher levels of anti-inflammatory lipids were linked to better outcomes.
In an interview with The Michigan Daily, Seonyoung Park, U-M research fellow and author of the study, said she decided to conduct the study based on her interest in women’s and children’s health…