Extracellular Vesicles from Maternal Plasma in Gestational Diabetes Mellitus: A Proteomic Approach to Identify Biomarkers with Epigenetic Implications

• Grant number: 25/15617-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Scientific Initiation
• Start date: October 01, 2025
• End date: September 30, 2026
• Field of knowledge: Biological Sciences - Morphology
• Principal Investigator: Juliana Ferreira Floriano
• Grantee: Júlia Castro Pedrassa
• Host Institution: Faculdade de Ciências (FC). Universidade Estadual Paulista (UNESP). Campus de Bauru. Bauru , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 23/12304-6 - Study and Bioengineering of Natural Rubber latex-Derived Extracellular Vesicles: A Novel Targeted Molecule Delivery System with High Potential for Regenerative Medicine., AP.JP

Abstract

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is characterized by any degree of hyperglycemia first detected during pregnancy and is the most common metabolic complication in the gestational period. Its occurrence is associated with factors such as obesity, family history of glucose intolerance, polycystic ovary syndrome, among others, affecting about 18% of pregnant women in Brazil. Intrauterine exposure to hyperglycemia can lead to both neonatal and maternal complications and increase the risk of future metabolic diseases for both the mother and the fetus.Studies show that GDM is associated with epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation, which may serve as prognostic biomarkers. In this context, extracellular vesicles (EVs)-particularly those of placental origin circulating in maternal plasma-emerge as valuable sources of microRNAs and proteins involved in fetal programming. These EVs are released in greater quantities during GDM pregnancies and may reflect specific epigenetic signatures.This study aims to investigate the protein content of plasma EVs from pregnant women with GDM at two gestational time points, using mass spectrometry and bioinformatics techniques. The goal is to identify epigenetic biomarkers with diagnostic and prognostic potential, fostering advancements in personalized medicine and preventive strategies in maternal and child health.