Gestational Diabetes Mellitus and Cancer Risk in Pediatrics: A Molecular Pathway and Future Approach

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is a condition that affects the physiology of the mother and fetus during pregnancy. In addition, it has been shown that it also plays a role in the occurrence and progression of pediatric cancer. Epigenetic changes are one of the risk factors that affect pediatric cancer.  Moreover, hyperinsulinemia and hyperglycemia are among the conditions that can play a role in childhood cancer due to GDM.  In many cases, inflammatory factors activate the NF-κB pathway and lead to inflammation. Furthermore, inhibition of apoptosis inducing factors causes the emergence and proliferation of cancer cells. Also, PI3K/AKT, mTOR, STAT/NF-kB pathways are among the most important pathways involved in the pathogenesis of pediatric cancer. Epigenetic changes, hyperinsulinemia, and hypoglycemia can increase the probability of cancer in children by changing the expression of some genes and signaling pathways. Identifying these pathways can help in the design of treatment strategies and lead to the prevention of cancer and increase the survival of patients.