The fetus protects itself before being born

According to a study led by Yehezkel Ben-Ari of the Institute of Mediterranean Biological Neurology in Marseille (France), before confronting the birth phase, the fetus protects itself by reducing activity.

The researchers explained in Science that fetal neurons begin to be vigilant to endure hypoxia or hypoxia at birth.

It was the mother who placed the fetus in vigilance. A few hours before birth, the hypothalamus of the pregnant woman produces a hormone called ocytocine that helps the uterus contract and prepare to produce breast milk. It is this hormone that reduces the activity of nerve cells in the fetal brain.

The researchers compared the activity of neurons in mice before and after birth by measuring the ratio of chlore in GABA neurons known to have stimulating function. Their activity has decreased in 1 to 2 hours before birth - the fetus is pushed out. The nerve cells have slept and reduced the need for oxygen.

Power