Cited by 4Birth, Development, and HealthHealth, Environment, Cognitive AgingPrenatal Substance Exposure Effects

Unpacking developmental programming: a conceptual and historical analysis in the context of DOHaD

Open access
Gretchev, Andrea, Temples, Heide S., England-Mason, Gillian, Dewey, Deborah, Sarasua, Sara M., Farrell, Christopher, Haley-Zitlin, Vivian·2026·Journal of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease

Abstract

The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) paradigm posits that early environmental factors may influence a child’s development and long-term health outcomes. Developmental programming (DP) is central to this paradigm, whereby specific early life exposures during critical periods of development are associated with changes to physiological and metabolic pathways, potentially predisposing individuals to disease. However, no standard definition of DP exists, and various terms have been used to describe similar processes. This analysis aimed to develop a conceptual definition for DP to inform interdisciplinary research, education, and practice. Walker and Avant’s eight-step method was employed to analyze the literature, incorporating elements of Rogers’ evolutionary approach to present the temporal and contextual evolution of the concept. A systematic search of MEDLINE with the EBSCOhost database was performed using the search term “developmental programming,” resulting in 95 titles included in this review. Defining attributes associated with DP include epigenetics, ontogeny, critical periods, and plasticity. Antecedents for DP may include maternal and infant nutrition, maternal disease and medication, lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and stress. The potential consequences include cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, diabetes, neurodevelopmental disorders, endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and mental health conditions. Effective healthcare provider education, knowledge dissemination, and addressing the social determinants of health through a population health approach are essential to translate DP theory and empirical evidence into practice. A common language and understanding of DP can improve the interdisciplinary advancement of DOHaD research to inform practice and education.

AI snapshot

Written from the paper’s full text.

TL;DR

This concept analysis synthesizes literature on developmental programming (DP) within DOHaD, finding no standard definition and proposing one grounded in epigenetics, ontogeny, sensitive periods, and plasticity. It identifies maternal nutrition, disease/medication, lifestyle, environmental exposures, and stress as antecedents, with consequences spanning cardiovascular, metabolic, neurodevelopmental, endocrine, reproductive, and mental health outcomes.

Key findings

  • No standard definition of DP was found; the authors propose DP as “the process by which environmental exposures may influence long-term health outcomes through alterations to biological pathways, occurring during sensitive periods within ontogeny when biological systems are particularly susceptible to being shaped or calibrated by these influences.”
  • Four defining attributes emerged: epigenetics, ontogeny, critical or sensitive periods, and plasticity.
  • Antecedents include maternal and infant nutrition, maternal disease and medication, lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and stress; potential consequences include cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, diabetes, neurodevelopmental disorders, endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and mental health conditions.
  • The MEDLINE search initially yielded 194 records, Google Scholar added 57 titles; after removing six duplicates, 245 articles were screened by title/abstract, 127 full texts were screened, and 95 articles were included. A re-execution on January 7, 2026 yielded 4 records, none of which met inclusion criteria.

Methods

  • Design: Walker and Avant’s eight-step concept analysis, adapted with Rodgers’ evolutionary perspective; antecedents and consequences were examined before case construction.
  • Data: systematic MEDLINE (EBSCOhost) search using the exact phrase “developmental programming,” limited to peer-reviewed English articles with full text available, no start date through December 30, 2024; Google Scholar was searched with the same keywords, and dictionaries plus additional searches for “developmental programming” AND definition/concept analysis were consulted. Inclusion required human maternal-offspring dyads, prenatal or perinatal environmental exposures, and associated physiological consequences in offspring.
  • Analysis: records were imported into Rayyan; after duplicates were removed, 245 articles were screened by title/abstract, 127 full texts were screened, and 95 were included. Articles were analyzed for themes related to attributes, antecedents, consequences, and empirical referents.

Limitations

  • Stated: no standard definition of DP exists; much human epigenetic research remains correlational; numerous confounders complicate isolating antecedents and attributes; current human evidence is primarily associative with minimal clinical utility; longitudinal human studies are needed, as are more research on the microbiome and paternal contributions; it remains unclear whether epigenetic changes are cause or consequence of phenotypes.
  • Stated: the search was limited to English peer-reviewed full-text articles in MEDLINE and Google Scholar; re-execution of the original search retrieved a larger number of records due to platform changes and database updating, and the 4 new records from December 30, 2024, to January 7, 2025, did not meet inclusion criteria.
  • Evident from the text: the model, borderline, and contrary cases are hypothetical illustrations, and the review does not describe a formal risk-of-bias or quality appraisal of included articles.

Model-written summary. Check it against the paper before relying on it.

Integrity signals

Registry

Crossref · 10.1017/s2040174426100518

Cites

67 of 67 references verified0 citation errors · 0 not checkable

Statistics

Nothing to recompute.

Claims the paper makes

0 of 99 cited sources checked · 0 supported · 0 flagged

  • Findingcitation

    Various terms have been used, sometimes interchangeably, to describe similar phenomena such as biological embedding, biological programming, metabolic imprinting, priming, induction, and conditioning.

    “Furthermore, various terms are used, sometimes interchangeably, to describe similar phenomena, such as biological embedding, biological programming, 4-6 metabolic imprinting, 7 priming, induction, and conditioning.8”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 5 sources checked
    • cites [4]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [5]

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    • cites [7]

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    • cites [8]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Findingown data

    No standard definition of developmental programming exists.

    “However, no standard definition of DP exists, and various terms have been used to describe similar processes.”
    • Also stated in: § Abstract · plain
      “However, a standardized definition of DP is lacking.”
    • Also stated in: § Data sources · plain
      “No definitions for DP were located, nor was there any prior published concept analysis.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Findingown data

    Despite the proposed shift in terminology, the articles included in this review suggest that DP remains frequently utilized in DOHaD research.

    “Despite this proposed shift in terminology, the articles included in this review suggest that DP remains frequently utilized in DOHaD research.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Findingcitation

    Stress during pregnancy has been associated with developmental delays in offspring.

    “Stress during pregnancy has also been associated with developmental delays in offspring.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Premisecitation

    In 2022, Barker's original observations were validated and extended by Baker et al. using data from over 370,000 participants in the UK Biobank.

    “In 2022, Barker's original observations 10 were validated and extended by Baker et al. 20 using data from over 370,000 participants in the UK Biobank.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [10]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [20]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. 71
  • May combine two claims. 36
  • The quote only partly states this claim. 1
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    Potential consequences of DP include cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, diabetes, neurodevelopmental disorders, endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and mental health conditions.

    “The potential consequences include cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, diabetes, neurodevelopmental disorders, endocrine disruption, reproductive issues, and mental health conditions.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Findingnone given

    This review identified four defining attributes central to DP: epigenetics, ontogeny, critical or sensitive periods, and plasticity.

    “This review identified four defining attributes that emerged as central to DP: (1) epigenetics, (2) ontogeny, (3) critical or sensitive periods, and (4) plasticity.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    Antecedents for DP may include maternal and infant nutrition, maternal disease and medication, lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and stress.

    “Antecedents for DP may include maternal and infant nutrition, maternal disease and medication, lifestyle choices, environmental exposures, and stress.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    No definitions for DP were located, nor was there any prior published concept analysis; one concept analysis on biological embedding was located.

    “No definitions for DP were located, nor was there any prior published concept analysis.One concept analysis on biological embedding was located.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Findingown data

    After removing duplicates, 245 articles were screened by titles and abstracts; 127 full-text articles were further screened, resulting in 95 included in this review.

    “After removing the six duplicates, 245 articles were screened by titles and abstracts.Of these, 127 full-text articles were further screened, resulting in 95 included in this review.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: The 95 included articles are representative of the DP literature.
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    This review revealed an expansive body of literature on DP, including numerous recent publications.

    “This review revealed an expansive body of literature on DP, including numerous recent publications.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Findingown data

    No universally accepted definition of DP was found.

    “However, no universally accepted definition was found.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    Much of the epigenetic research in humans remains correlational in nature.

    “Furthermore, much of the epigenetic research in humans remains correlational in nature.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. May combine two claims.

    Findingnone given

    A standard definition is lacking for the term developmental programming, and other terms that have similar meanings are used interchangeably.

    “However, a standard definition is lacking for this term, and other terms that have similar meanings are used interchangeably.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Findingnone given

    The DOHaD concept has evolved to consider other environmental chemical exposures such as pesticides, persistent organic pollutants, and heavy metals.

    “Although most research has focused on EDCs, the DOHaD concept has evolved to consider other environmental chemical exposures such as pesticides, persistent organic pollutants, and heavy metals.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Findingnone given

    The concept of developmental programming has evolved, with varying terms utilized, sometimes interchangeably, to describe the same phenomenon.

    “The concept of DP has evolved, with varying terms utilized, sometimes interchangeably, to describe the same phenomenon.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    The consequences of these exposures are in developmental programming that predispose the fetus to adverse health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and mental health challenges.

    “The consequences of these exposures are in developmental programming that predispose the fetus to adverse health outcomes such as cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and mental health challenges.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    Individuals are more vulnerable to the effects of the antecedents during specific sensitive periods of development.

    “Individuals are more vulnerable to the effects of the antecedents during specific sensitive periods of development.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    Developmental programming is intricately linked with the developmental origins of health and disease.

    “It is intricately linked with the developmental origins of health and disease.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    Developmental programming is mediated by attributes such as epigenetics, ontogeny, and plasticity.

    “Developmental programming is mediated by attributes such as epigenetics, ontogeny, and plasticity.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    Currently, various terms describe similar phenomena, primarily influenced by disciplinary perspectives.

    “Currently, various terms describe similar phenomena, primarily influenced by disciplinary perspectives.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    The term developmental programming has evolved over the last eighty years.

    “The term developmental programming has evolved over the last eighty years.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Findingown data

    The proposed conceptual definition of developmental programming is empirically grounded in the attributes, antecedents, and consequences identified through this analysis.

    “The following proposed conceptual definition of DP is empirically grounded in the attributes, antecedents, and consequences identified through this analysis.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    The antecedents of developmental programming include maternal nutrition, disease and medication, lifestyle, environmental toxins, and stress.

    “The antecedents of developmental programming include maternal nutrition, disease and medication, lifestyle, environmental toxins, and stress.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Findingnone given

    Some epigenetic changes can be transmitted intergenerationally to grandchildren.

    “Some epigenetic changes can be transmitted intergenerationally to grandchildren.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Findingreasoning

    The current evidence from human studies provides minimal clinical utility as it is primarily associative.

    “The current evidence from human studies provides minimal clinical utility as it is primarily associative.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    The DOHaD paradigm posits that early environmental factors may influence a child's development and long-term health outcomes.

    “The Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (DOHaD) paradigm posits that early environmental factors may influence a child's development and long-term health outcomes.”
    • Also stated in: § Abstract · hedged
      “The DOHaD framework adopts a lifecourse perspective, proposing that environmental and lifestyle exposures during critical developmental periods (e.g., in utero, the first 1000 days after conception, and adolescence) may influence long-term health trajectories.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [1]

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    • cites [3]

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  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Among individuals with high genetic risk, higher infant mortality rates were associated with a significantly greater risk of ischemic heart disease; where infant mortality rates were lower, genetic risk was not statistically significant.

    “Among individuals with high genetic risk, higher infant mortality rates were associated with a significantly greater risk of ischemic heart disease.Conversely, where infant mortality rates were lower, genetic risk was not statistically significant.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [20]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    Barker's team concluded that poor social conditions leading to health-damaging lifestyle choices could not be the sole explanation linking infant mortality and heart disease.

    “They concluded that poor social conditions leading to health-damaging lifestyle choices could not be the sole explanation linking infant mortality and heart disease.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [10]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Baker et al. incorporated polygenic risk scores for ischemic heart disease and demonstrated effect-modification by early-life environment.

    “Additionally, Baker et al. 20 incorporated polygenic risk scores for ischemic heart disease and demonstrated effect-modification by early-life environment.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [20]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    Specific early life exposures during critical periods of development are associated with changes to physiological and metabolic pathways, potentially predisposing individuals to disease.

    “Developmental programming (DP) is central to this paradigm, whereby specific early life exposures during critical periods of development are associated with changes to physiological and metabolic pathways, potentially predisposing individuals to disease.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Premisenone given

    Developmental programming (DP) is central to the DOHaD paradigm and is a proposed biological mechanism underlying the DOHaD approach.

    “Central to this paradigm is the concept of developmental programming (DP), a proposed biological mechanism underlying the DOHaD approach.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    A common language and understanding of DP can improve the interdisciplinary advancement of DOHaD research to inform practice and education.

    “A common language and understanding of DP can improve the interdisciplinary advancement of DOHaD research to inform practice and education.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationcitation

    These findings provide empirical evidence that adverse early-life environments may amplify genetic susceptibility, while more favorable early-life conditions may attenuate the expression of genetic risk.

    “These findings provide empirical evidence that adverse early-life environments may amplify genetic susceptibility, while more favorable early-life conditions may attenuate the expression of genetic risk.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S1 (asserted).

    Premisecitation

    Barker hypothesized that prenatal and early postnatal environmental factors, such as nutritional deficiencies, could permanently alter physiology and metabolism through DP, predisposing individuals to CHD and stroke later in life.

    “The authors hypothesized that prenatal and early postnatal environmental factors, such as nutritional deficiencies, could permanently alter physiology and metabolism through DP, predisposing individuals to CHD and stroke later in life.10”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [10]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    PCOS in mothers has been associated with the development of PCOS in their infants as well as metabolic disorders or reproductive issues.

    “PCOS in mothers has been associated with the development of PCOS in their infants as well as metabolic disorders or reproductive issues.23”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Premisecitation

    Programming describes the physiological and biological mechanisms by which lasting changes to an organism's structure, function, and metabolism occur due to exposures during specific periods.

    “Programming describes the physiological and biological mechanisms by which lasting changes to an organism's structure, function, and metabolism occur due to exposures during specific periods.9,21”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [9]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [21]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductcitation

    The analysis also draws on Rodgers' evolutionary perspective, which acknowledges that concepts are dynamic and context-dependent and evolve over time and across disciplinary boundaries.

    “Recognizing the limitations of a linear approach, this analysis also draws on Rodgers' 31 evolutionary perspective, which acknowledges that concepts are dynamic and context-dependent and evolve over time and across disciplinary boundaries.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [31]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Plasticity is essential in defining DP because it is a key mechanism linking early life experiences and developmental outcomes.

    “Thus, plasticity is essential in defining DP because it is a key mechanism linking early life experiences and developmental outcomes.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    A concept analysis to distinguish between biological programming and biological embedding identified that biological programming is less frequently used and has a high degree of variation in how it is interpreted and applied.

    “A concept analysis to distinguish between biological programming and biological embedding identified that the former is less frequently used and has a high degree of variation in how it is interpreted and applied.27”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [27]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Any definition of DP must emphasize that the consequences are not limited to the exposed individual but may extend to multiple subsequent generations.

    “As such, any definition of DP must emphasize that the consequences are not limited to the exposed individual but may extend to multiple subsequent generations.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Evidence from human studies remains limited and does not currently support stable programming of the intestinal microbiota during the first 1000 days of life.

    “Evidence from human studies remains limited and does not currently support stable programming of the intestinal microbiota during the first 1000 days of life.3”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [3]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisereasoning

    Critical periods are fundamental to DP as they are periods where an organism is more vulnerable to environmental influences that can have long-term implications for health and disease.

    “Critical periods are fundamental to DP as they are periods where an organism is more vulnerable to environmental influences that can have long-term implications for health and disease.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Babies born to mothers with pre-pregnancy obesity (high BMI) were observed to be large for gestational age and at elevated risk of developing obesity and metabolic disease, including type 2 diabetes, as adults.

    “Babies born to mothers with pre-pregnancy obesity, indicated by a high body mass index (BMI), were observed to be large for gestational age and at elevated risk of developing obesity and metabolic disease, including type 2 diabetes, as adults.11,23,34”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [11]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [23]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [34]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S1 (asserted), S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    It has been argued that the preferable term is sensitive periods, as this confers a degree of reversibility of detrimental programming or possible future benefit from a positive environmental influence.

    “However, it has been argued that the preferable term is”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [51]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    The ability of the body's organs and systems to adapt to environmental conditions extends beyond the neonatal period, throughout life, and is referred to as plasticity.

    “Despite the focus on the first 1000 days as a critical period of vulnerability, the ability of the body's organs and systems to adapt to environmental conditions extends beyond the neonatal period, throughout life, and is referred to as plasticity.9”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [9]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Study design and conductnone given

    Searches were limited to peer-reviewed articles published in English with full text available.

    “Searches were limited to peer-reviewed articles published in English with full text available.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Waterland and Garza suggested metabolic imprinting was a more appropriate term to refer to the specific relationship between early nutritional exposures and the onset of disease later in life.

    “Toward the end of the decade (1999), Waterland and Garza 7 suggested metabolic imprinting was a more appropriate term to refer to the specific relationship between early nutritional exposures and the onset of disease later in life.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [7]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    There is significant overlap between biological programming and biological embedding, and they are often used interchangeably.

    “However, there is significant overlap between the two terms, and they are often used interchangeably.27,28”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [27]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [28]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim. The quote only partly states this claim.

    Study design and conductown data

    A systematic search of MEDLINE (EBSCOhost) was performed using the exact phrase developmental programming.

    “A systematic search of MEDLINE(EBSCOhost) was performed using the exact phrase”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: The exact phrase developmental programming in MEDLINE and Google Scholar captures the relevant literature on DP.
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

    Premisenone given

    DOHaD is the overarching paradigm, of which programming is a tenet.

    “DOHaD is the overarching paradigm, of which programming is a tenet.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Nutrition is a key antecedent to DP.

    “Nutrition is a key antecedent to DP, given that in 2022, the World Health Organization reported that 29.6% of the global population (or 2.4 billion people) did not have adequate access to food to meet nutritional requirements.57”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [57]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    In 2014, Hanson and Gluckman expressed a preference for priming, induction, or conditioning, believing these terms were less deterministic than programming.

    “In 2014, Hanson and Gluckman expressed a preference for priming, induction, or conditioning, believing these terms were less deterministic than programming.8”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [8]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Biological embedding has a more consistently used definition and is more commonly used in sociology, psychology, and developmental medicine.

    “Biological embedding has a more consistently used definition and is more commonly used in sociology, psychology, and developmental medicine.27”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [27]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Studies by Barker et al. and subsequently, those in cohorts exposed to famine, demonstrated that maternal malnutrition may predispose the offspring to develop cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental health issues.

    “The studies by Barker et al. and subsequently, those in cohorts exposed to famine, demonstrated that maternal malnutrition may predispose the offspring to develop cardiovascular disease, metabolic disease, type 2 diabetes, and mental health issues.[9][10][11]44”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [9]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [10]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [11]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Preeclampsia affects about 2%-8% of pregnancies and is associated with premature births, intrauterine growth restriction, and increased risk of hypertension and stroke for offspring in adulthood.

    “Further, preeclampsia affects about 2%-8% of pregnancies and is associated with premature births, intrauterine growth restriction, and increased risk of hypertension and stroke for offspring in adulthood.23”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Interpretationreasoning

    Epigenetics is a multimodal molecular mechanism of DP, which can act as an intermediary between environmental influences and phenotypic expression.

    “Therefore, epigenetics is a multimodal molecular mechanism of DP, which can act as an intermediary between environmental influences and phenotypic expression.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Transgenerational epigenetic inheritance is the heritable transmission of environmentally induced phenotypes through alteration of the epigenome of fetal germ cells.

    “Contrary to the vertical transmission from mother to fetus, transgenerational epigenetic inheritance is the heritable transmission of environmentally induced phenotypes 45 through alteration of the epigenome of fetal germ cells.21”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 2 sources checked
    • cites [45]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [21]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Study design and conductcitation

    The concept of DP was analyzed by synthesizing findings from this review according to the eight-step method proposed by Walker and Avant.

    “The concept of DP was analyzed by synthesizing the findings from this review according to the eight-step method proposed by Walker and Avant: 30”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [30]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Due to an organism's plastic, malleable nature, it can rebound to a degree from the insult of prematurity.

    “Due to an organism's plastic, malleable nature, it can rebound to a degree from the insult of prematurity.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In utero exposure to substances such as smoking, alcohol, and legal and illicit drugs may be detrimental to fetal health, potentially altering growth and development and predisposing the fetus to future disease.

    “Exposures to these substances in utero may be detrimental to the health of a fetus, potentially altering growth and development and predisposing the fetus to future disease development.9”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [9]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In humans, endocrine-disrupting chemicals have been associated with various adult disorders including type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, male infertility, reproductive dysfunction, and metabolic disorders, with epigenetic changes believed to contribute to these outcomes.

    “In humans, EDCs have been associated with various adult disorders, including type 2 diabetes, cancer, obesity, male infertility, reproductive dysfunction, and metabolic disorders, with epigenetic changes believed to contribute to these outcomes.23”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Project Ice Storm found that a stressful life event experienced in pregnancy can negatively impact cognitive and language development at age two, mainly when exposure occurred in the first two trimesters, with the most significant effects experienced with second-trimester exposure and moderate-to-high stress.

    “The authors found that a stressful life event experienced in pregnancy can negatively impact cognitive and language development at age two, mainly when exposure occurred in the first two trimesters, with the most significant effects experienced with second-trimester exposure and moderate-to-high stress.59”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [59]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The empirical referents contribute to the ability to apply developmental programming in research and practice.

    “The empirical referents contribute to the ability to apply DP in research and practice.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    While rates of exposure to known teratogens declined over the study period, exposure to potentially teratogenic drugs increased.

    “While rates of exposure to known teratogens declined over the study period, exposure to potentially teratogenic drugs increased.61”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [61]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    A family history of metabolic or other disease traits may be linked to common exposures to toxins, stress, or diet.

    “Additionally, a family history of metabolic or other disease traits may be linked to common exposures to toxins, stress, or diet.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    There has been significant growth in DOHaD research over the past two decades, particularly observational studies using animal models and longitudinal human cohorts.

    “There has been significant growth in DOHaD research over the past two decades, particularly observational studies using animal models and longitudinal human cohorts.9,53,80”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 3 sources checked
    • cites [9]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [53]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

    • cites [80]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Given the challenges in measuring the subjective experience of stress, it remains unclear what factors might tip the balance to predispose an individual to altered health outcomes.

    “However, given the challenges in measuring the subjective experience of stress, it remains unclear what factors might tip the balance to predispose an individual to altered health outcomes.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Stress and adversity are subjective experiences, with individual perceptions and responses based on unique experiences and circumstances.
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Toxic stress from experiences of systemic racism and oppression is associated with disease development and heritable epigenetic changes.

    “More recent research has focused on how toxic stress from experiences of systemic racism and oppression is associated with disease development and heritable epigenetic changes.33”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [33]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Preserved methylation changes across generations might indicate that transgenerational epigenetic inheritance has occurred.

    “Preserved methylation changes across generations might indicate that transgenerational epigenetic inheritance has occurred.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Physical activity reduces perceived stress, which is another antecedent of developmental programming.

    “Physical activity has the added advantage of reducing perceived stress, 66 another antecedent of DP.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [66]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Similar effects to maternal stress have been reported in survivors of the Holocaust and natural disasters.

    “Similar effects have been reported in survivors of the holocaust and natural disasters.23”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The DOHaD paradigm provides a theoretical basis for healthcare research, education, and practice pertaining to precipitating factors of adult-onset noncommunicable disease.

    “The DOHaD paradigm provides a theoretical basis for healthcare research, education, and practice pertaining to precipitating factors of adult-onset noncommunicable disease.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The recent application of statistical algorithms to estimate deviations in biological age from chronological age, presumed to reflect underlying cellular and molecular processes, represents an example of differential development, potentially in response to environmental influences.

    “The recent application of statistical algorithms to estimate deviations in biological age from chronological age, presumed to reflect underlying cellular and molecular processes, represents an example of differential development, potentially in response to environmental influences.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Experiencing the stress of losing a loved one during pregnancy has been shown to impact the offspring's immune function and can predispose one to develop obesity or mental health issues.

    “Experiencing the stress of losing a loved one during pregnancy has been shown to impact the offspring's immune function and can predispose one to develop obesity or mental health issues.23”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Numerous potential confounders complicate efforts to isolate the antecedents and attributes of developmental programming as influencing the consequences.

    “However, it should be noted that numerous potential confounders complicate efforts to isolate the antecedents and attributes of the concept as influencing the consequences.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Epigenetic changes can be observed by examining changes in DNA methylation patterns using bisulfite sequencing or nanopore technologies.

    “In a research context, epigenetic changes can be observed by examining changes in DNA methylation patterns using bisulfite sequencing or nanopore technologies.78”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [78]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Rodents subjected to perinatal stress produced offspring with higher adipose tissue levels, impaired glycemic control, low birth weight, reduced glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptor expression in the hippocampus, and impaired hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis feedback regulation.

    “Rodents subjected to perinatal stress produced offspring with higher adipose tissue levels, impaired glycemic control, low birth weight, reduced glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptor expression in the hippocampus, and impaired hypothalamicpituitary-adrenal axis feedback regulation.23”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Maternal smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of obesity in offspring during childhood and the risk of hypertension in adulthood.

    “Additionally, maternal smoking during pregnancy increases the risk of obesity in offspring during childhood and the risk of hypertension in adulthood.62”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [62]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    In animals with induced diabetes, their offspring had normal glucose metabolism at birth, but as adults, they developed diabetes during periods of metabolic stress, such as pregnancy.

    “In animals with induced diabetes, their offspring had normal glucose metabolism at birth.However, as adults, they developed diabetes during periods of metabolic stress, such as pregnancy.23”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [23]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Developmental milestones in infancy and childhood can be evaluated using several validated screening tools that assess psychosocial, cognitive, psychomotor, language, visual, and auditory development.

    “Developmental milestones in infancy and childhood can be evaluated using several validated screening tools that assess psychosocial, cognitive, psychomotor, language, visual, and auditory development.79”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [79]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    Healthcare providers expressed that time constraints prioritized other pregnancy concerns and led to a reactive rather than proactive approach to care.

    “Healthcare providers expressed that time constraints prioritized other pregnancy concerns and led to a reactive rather than proactive approach to care.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [82]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    Targeted interventions for modifiable risk factors may mitigate adverse long-term health outcomes, particularly during sensitive periods.

    “Targeted interventions for modifiable risk factors may mitigate adverse long-term health outcomes, particularly during sensitive periods.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Healthcare providers recognized that the benefits exceeded their concerns.

    “They recognized that the benefits exceeded their concerns.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [82]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    Common terminology used across disciplines to describe developmental programming can aid the collaborative advancement of DOHaD science.

    “Common terminology used across disciplines to describe DP can aid the collaborative advancement of DOHaD science.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

    Premisecitation

    The participants believed counseling should be empowering, supportive, and patient-centered.

    “The participants believed counseling should be empowering, supportive, and patient-centered.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [82]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    One of the most significant challenges to conducting DOHaD research in human populations is the numerous possible confounding variables in the social and physical environment that are difficult to control.

    “One of the most significant challenges to conducting this research in human populations is the numerous possible confounding variables in the social and physical environment that are difficult to control.84”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [84]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Some healthcare providers worried about causing stress or anxiety in patients by scaring them or making them feel guilty that their actions could cause harm to their baby or grandchildren over the long term, mainly if they were not able to change the contributing factor.

    “Some healthcare providers worried about causing stress or anxiety in patients by scaring them or making them feel guilty that their actions could cause harm to their baby or grandchildren over the long term, mainly if they were not able to change the contributing factor (e.g., obesity).”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [82]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    The translation of knowledge about developmental programming within a DOHaD framework needs improvement to bridge the gaps between theory and practice.

    “However, the translation of knowledge about DP within a DOHaD framework needs improvement to bridge the gaps between theory and practice.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    Many individual choices are constrained or influenced by the social determinants of health, which include income, social status, social support networks, education, employment and working conditions, social and physical environments, personal health practices and coping skills, early childhood development, biology and genetic endowment, health services, gender, and culture.

    “In addition, many individual choices are constrained or influenced by the social determinants of health, which include income, social status, social support networks, education, employment and working conditions, social and physical environments, personal health practices and coping skills, early childhood development, biology and genetic endowment, health services, gender, and culture.83”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [83]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

    Interpretationnone given

    While epigenetic changes may be long-lasting, individuals may also exhibit a degree of biological plasticity, allowing for partial reversibility, attenuation, or adaptive modification in response to subsequent environmental conditions or interventions across the life course.

    “individuals may also exhibit a degree of biological plasticity, allowing for partial reversibility, attenuation, or adaptive modification in response to subsequent environmental conditions or interventions across the life course.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    The authors suggested that better collaboration between researchers and practitioners can help bridge existing theory-to-practice gaps.

    “The authors suggested that better collaboration between researchers and practitioners can help bridge existing theory-to-practice gaps.82”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [82]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    Healthcare providers identified a need for guidelines on approaching conversations with patients.

    “However, they identified a need for guidelines on approaching conversations with patients.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [82]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    This conceptual definition of developmental programming provides an evidence-based explanation of how early-life exposures may contribute to long-term health trajectories.

    “This conceptual definition of DP provides an evidence-based explanation of how early-life exposures may contribute to longterm health trajectories.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Epigenetics is one of the most extensively characterized molecular processes underlying developmental programming alterations.
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationreasoning

    A population health approach may be more practical, as it may circumvent some identified barriers in targeting individuals.

    “A population health approach may be more practical, as it may circumvent some identified barriers in targeting individuals.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
    • Rests on an assumption: Social determinants of health are intricately linked with the antecedents to developmental programming: nutrition, stress, disease, lifestyle, and environment.
  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

    Premisecitation

    Healthcare providers felt that providing this information to parents could motivate changes in their health-seeking behaviors.

    “At the same time, healthcare providers felt that providing this information to parents could motivate changes in their health-seeking behaviors.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [82]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

  • Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

    Interpretationnone given

    In some contexts, the effects of developmental programming may extend to subsequent generations through inherited epigenetic modifications.

    “In some contexts, the effects of DP may extend to subsequent generations through inherited epigenetic modifications.”
    Quote in the paperNot a substantial claim
  • Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

    Premisecitation

    Healthcare providers considered developmental programming a problematic concept for patients to understand, particularly regarding long-term implications.

    “The authors found that healthcare providers considered DP a problematic concept for patients to understand, particularly regarding long-term implications.”
    Quote in the paperSubstantial claim0 of 1 sources checked
    • cites [82]

      Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

93 of 93
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The exact phrase developmental programming in MEDLINE and Google Scholar captures the relevant literature on DP.

    “A systematic search of MEDLINE(EBSCOhost) was performed using the exact phrase”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The 95 included articles are representative of the DP literature.

    “After removing the six duplicates, 245 articles were screened by titles and abstracts.Of these, 127 full-text articles were further screened, resulting in 95 included in this review.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Disciplinary perspectives influence only minor differences in the meaning of terms used to describe DP.

    “Disciplinary perspectives influence minor differences in the meaning of these terms despite the same theoretical foundations.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Stress and adversity are subjective experiences, with individual perceptions and responses based on unique experiences and circumstances.

    “Stress and adversity are subjective experiences, with individual perceptions and responses based on their unique experiences and circumstances.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Each person has their own level of tolerance to what feels manageable or overwhelming.

    “Each person has their level of tolerance to what feels manageable or overwhelming.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    The ability to manage stress may depend on coping mechanisms, support, the presence of compounding stressors, and resilience.

    “The ability to manage stress may depend on coping mechanisms, support, the presence of compounding stressors, and resilience.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Social determinants of health are intricately linked with the antecedents to developmental programming: nutrition, stress, disease, lifestyle, and environment.

    “These determinants are intricately linked with the antecedents to DP: nutrition, stress, disease, lifestyle, and environment.”
  • The paper relies on this without support.

    Epigenetics is one of the most extensively characterized molecular processes underlying developmental programming alterations.

    “To date, epigenetics is one of the most extensively characterized molecular processes underlying these alterations.”
8 of 8

Self-check

Percentages, sums and reported differences re-computed from the paper’s own numbers.

Each contradiction between two passages listed here was confirmed by an independent check.

  • Epigenetic inheritance described as both genetic and nongenetic

    Minor

    In the same discussion, the paper describes environmentally induced epigenetic inheritance as nongenetic, then defines transgenerational inheritance as transmission of genetic information.

1 of 1

Cites

Flagged first, then by citations

Research works printed but not linked: 4

  1. Phillips, 2008, The role of methylation in gene expression, Nat Educ, 1, 116
  2. Lucas, 1991, Programming by early nutrition in man, Ciba Found Symp, 156, 38
  3. Lorenz, 1937, Imprinting, Auk, 54, 243
  4. Hinkle, 1973, Coronary heart disease and sudden death in actively employed American men, Bull N Y Acad Med, 49, 467

Cited by

Sorted by citations

Authors
Gretchev, A., Temples, H. S., England-Mason, G., Dewey, D., Sarasua, S. M., Farrell, C., & Haley-Zitlin, V.
Affiliations
  • Douglas College (CA)
  • Clemson University (US)
  • University of Calgary (CA)
  • Clemson University
Corresponding author
Gretchev, Andrea
Venue
Journal of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease
Published
2026
Volume
17
Pages
e17-e17
ISSN
  • 2040-1744 (ISSN-L)
  • 2040-1752
OpenAlex
W7147449967
Cited by
4
References
59
Citations by year
2026: 4
FWCI
37.07
Type
journal article
Language
en
Open access
Locations
  • Journal of Developmental Origins of Health and Disease (publishedVersion, cc-by)
  • PubMed (publishedVersion)
  • TigerPrints (Clemson University) (submittedVersion, cc-by)
Topics
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health › Birth, Development, and Health
  • Physical Sciences › Environmental Science › Health, Toxicology and Mutagenesis › Health, Environment, Cognitive Aging
  • Health Sciences › Medicine › Pediatrics, Perinatology and Child Health › Prenatal Substance Exposure Effects
Keywords
developmental programming, developmental origins of health and disease, early life exposure, critical period, epigenetics, ontogeny, plasticity, maternal nutrition, environmental exposure, stress, cardiovascular disease, metabolic disorders, diabetes mellitus, neurodevelopmental disorders, endocrine disruption, reproductive health, mental health, social determinants of health, health professions education, conceptual definitions
MeSH terms
Developmental Origins of Health and Disease, Child Development, Environmental Exposure, Female, Humans, Pregnancy, Prenatal Exposure Delayed Effects, Epigenesis, Genetic

About these checks

Registry, retraction, Cites and statistics results are computed, not judged, with one exception: a printed reference that no index lists is read once by a model before it counts as a citation error. Claims are extracted by a model and kept only when their quote appears verbatim in the text; each cited source is then checked, with a model’s help, for whether it says what the claim relies on. Those verdicts can be wrong — read the claim’s quote and the cited source before relying on one.

Claims read by deepseek-v4.1-flash under definition version 3 (extract-v3) on 2026-10-23.

Classified by jev-1.13-20260917 (gold-guideline-v0.2) on 2026-10-23.

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