Two-generation Exposure to a High-fat Diet Alters Duct Cell Morphology and Induces Connexin 32 and 43 Expression in Rat Submandibular Salivary Glands

Introduction : The consumption of a high-fat diet (HFD) during pregnancy can adversely affect offspring development. Excess weight resulting for overconsumption of energy is associated with increased risk of cancer, morbidity, and mortality. In this study we examined the effects of HFD consumption during pregnancy and lactation in two-generation on the duct cell morphology and the expression of connexin 32 (Cx32) and connexin 43 (Cx43) in the submandibular gland (SMG).