Peri-Implantation Undernutrition Programs Blunted Angiotensin II Evoked Baroreflex Responses in Young Adult Sheep

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Abstract
An adverse environment around conception and implantation influences later fetal growth and development to term in humans and sheep. Indeed, preimplantation undernutrition of rats elevated the systolic blood pressure of the resultant adult offspring. In this study, adult cardiovascular function is examined in a slower growing, non–litter-bearing species after peri-implantation undernutrition. Eight ewes were fed to 50% equivalent food intake of 12 control ewes from 1 to 30 days (term ≈147 days) only. Following consumption of an adequate diet to term, natural lambing, and then weaning, resting cardiovascular status and baroreflex function were examined in the resultant young adult offspring. Birth weight and postnatal growth to 1 year of age were unaffected by early undernutrition; however, nutrient-restricted sheep had increased pulse pressure, a reduced rate pressure product, and a leftward shift in their baroreflex function curve. Baroreflex sensitivity during angiotensin II infusion was also blunted in...