Department of Nutrition Student Projects
Submission Date
4-13-2025
Document Type
Undergraduate Project
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition (BSHN)
First Mentor
Andrea Charvet
Keywords
paternal, obesity, placenta, function, father, pregnancy
Abstract
Paternal obesity is a rising concern in conception and reproductive health, with increasing evidence suggesting its impact on pregnancy outcomes. While maternal obesity's effects on fetal development and placental function are well-documented, the role of paternal obesity remains less understood. The placenta, crucial for nutrient exchange and fetal development, can be disrupted by inflammation, oxidative stress, and epigenetic modifications, potentially leading to long-term health implications for both maternal and fetal health. Understanding the paternal influence on placental development is essential for improving pregnancy outcomes and offspring
health. This study aims to investigate the relationship between paternal obesity on placental function by analyzing placental structure, gene expression profiles, and vascularization in offspring from fathers with obesity compared to those of healthy weight. We hypothesize that paternal obesity will result in significant alterations in placental gene expression, leading to dysfunction and potential fetal growth restrictions. Data will be collected through histological
examinations, RNA sequencing, and biomarker analysis to assess inflammatory responses and epigenetic modifications. Utilizing animal models and human clinical samples, this study seeks to provide a better understanding of how paternal obesity contributes to placental changes, differentiating itself from research primarily focused on maternal obesity. The results of this study may provide insight into the role of paternal health in pregnancy outcomes and highlight
the need for early interventions prior to conception. Future research should focus on developing targeted strategies to mitigate adverse effects of paternal obesity on fetal development.
NSUWorks Citation
Delaney G. Wolfe and Delaney G. Wiolfe. 2025. The Impact of Paternal Obesity on Placental Development and Function During Pregnancy. Capstone. Nova Southeastern University. Retrieved from NSUWorks, . (22)
https://nsuworks.nova.edu/hpd_com_nutrition/22.
Included in
Curriculum and Instruction Commons, Human and Clinical Nutrition Commons, Integrative Biology Commons, Medicine and Health Sciences Commons, Molecular, Genetic, and Biochemical Nutrition Commons, Other Cell and Developmental Biology Commons, Other Genetics and Genomics Commons