L4

Question 1

Thrifty Phenotype Hypothesis

Answer 1

Hales and Barker 1992

Foetus changes structure and function of its tissues because it enables it to cope with reduced nutrient supply in the short term

Question 2

Thrifty phenotype as an adaptive maternal response

Answer 2

Hales and Barker 2001

Foetus changes structure and function of its tissues based on a forecast of its post-birth nutritional environment given to it by its mother. Adaptations can become detrimental when forecast and environment differ

Question 3

Predictive Adaptive Response hypothesis

Answer 3

Gluckman and Hanson 2004/5

Foetus changes structure and function of its tissues based on a prediction of the future environment - help it to cope with reduced nutrient supply in the long term

Question 4

Matching between maternal and offspring phenotype

Answer 4

Wells 2007

Foetus changes structure and function of its tissues so that its metabolic demands will match what the mother is able to provide