GESTATIONAL DIABETES: PATHOPHYSIOLOGY, BIOMARKERS AND THE IMPACT ON THE HEALTH OF THE MOTHER AND THE BABY

Abstract

Recognized as an important public health problem, gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) is a metabolic disorder characterized by glucose intolerance first identified during pregnancy, and it is related to certain hormones produced by the placenta. Among the main complications associated with GDM described in the literature are preeclampsia, gestational hypertension, a higher need for cesarean delivery, an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus, macrosomia, neonatal hypoglycemia, respiratory distress, prematurity, and other neonatal complications, as well as cardiovascular diseases. The present study aims to describe the main pathophysiological aspects of gestational diabetes; identify the main biomarkers associated with disease diagnosis; and investigate how early detection of GDM through these biomarkers may reduce adverse clinical impacts for both mother and child. This is a literature review based on scientific articles, monographs, guideline manuals, and health atlases published over the last 8 years, prioritizing the most recent studies. Finally, pregnancy itself is considered a state of physiologically induced insulin resistance due to natural hormonal changes. However, the condition is defined in pregnancy when pancreatic secretory capacity has already reached its functional limit. For the early detection of gestational diabetes mellitus, studies highlight biomarkers such as zonulin and glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), among many others. Early identification of GDM through biomarkers, combined with personalized and effective treatment, represents a major strategy for maternal and child health, minimizing future complications.