Future clinical prospects of C-peptide testing in the early diagnosis of gestational diabetes

Abstract

Gestational diabetes is typically diagnosed in the late second or third trimester of pregnancy. It is one of the most common metabolic disorders among expectant mothers, with potential serious short- and long-term complications for both maternal and offspring health. C-peptide is secreted from pancreatic beta-cells into circulation in equimolar amounts with insulin. It is a useful biomarker to estimate the beta-cell function because it undergoes negligible hepatic clearance and consequently it has a longer half-life compared to insulin. Pregnancy induces increased insulin resistance due to physiological changes in hormonal and metabolic homeostasis. Inadequate compensation by islet beta-cells results in hyperglycemia. The standard oral glucose tolerance test at 24-28 wk of gestation sets the diagnosis. Accumulated evidence from prospective studies indicates a link between early pregnancy C-peptide levels and the risk of subsequent gestational diabetes. Elevated C-peptide levels and surrogate glycemic indices at the beginning of pregnancy could prompt appropriate strategies for secondary prevention.

Keywords: C-peptide; Gestational diabetes; Secondary prevention; Pregnancy; Clinical laboratory techniques

Core Tip: Understanding the diagnostic role of C-peptide measurements in predicting hyperglycemia during pregnancy can facilitate timely interventions in clinical practice, potentially preventing gestational diabetes in a subset of predisposed women. Further research is necessary to confirm the utility of C-peptide testing in pregnancy and define the appropriate diagnostic thresholds.