Size at birth and adult fat mass in twin sheep are determined in early gestation

Abstract

Key points Reduced size at birth and shorter gestation length are both associated with increased risks of non-communicable diseases (NCD) in later adult life. Twins are born both smaller and earlier than singletons and adult twins also are reported to be at increased risk of common NCDs such as diabetes. The smaller size and shorter gestation length of twins has been presumed to be due to a lack of intrauterine space and/or limitations of placental nutrient supply in late gestation, but there are few data to support this. We show that size at birth and adult fat mass in twin sheep are determined largely in early gestation. Knowledge of the mechanisms underlying early pregnancy determination of fetal growth and gestation length in twins are likely to increase understanding of how early pregnancy factors influence lifelong health for offspring from all pregnancies.