Low Placental Growth Factor Linked to ADHD Risk
A study suggests that placental protein levels during the third trimester may influence neurodevelopmental outcomes in children.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Pregnancy
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A study published September 23, 2026, linked lower levels of placental growth factor (PlGF) during the third trimester to a higher risk of childhood ADHD. The findings suggest that neurodevelopmental outcomes may be influenced by placental health during pregnancy.
Why it matters
Researchers are exploring whether placental angiogenic deficits in utero serve as early markers for neurodevelopmental conditions like ADHD. This research aims to better understand the biological origins of the disorder, which currently affects over 10% of U.S. children.
In a retrospective study of 176 pregnancies, researchers observed that lower third-trimester PlGF levels correlated with an increased risk of ADHD diagnoses in children. The study, which adjusted for factors like preeclampsia and fetal growth, noted no similar association during the second trimester.
The players
University of Iowa
A public research university and health system that maintains a longitudinal pregnancy biorepository.
The details
Placental growth factor is a protein involved in the formation of new blood vessels, a process known as angiogenesis. Researchers utilized two immunoassay platforms to measure PlGF in stored plasma samples, finding that lower levels were associated with a higher likelihood of ADHD outcomes. Investigators suspect these placental deficits may impact fetal brain development, though they emphasized that these findings are preliminary and are currently being tested in mouse models.
Timeline
September 23, 2026: The study was published in JAMA Psychiatry.
September 30, 2026: The University of Iowa released a report on the findings.
October 22, 2026: Contemporary Pediatrics published an article on the research.
Health Landscape
Current research into neurodevelopmental disorders is increasingly focused on identifying potential biological risk factors that emerge well before birth. This study adds to the growing literature investigating how placental function contributes to long-term cognitive and behavioral health.
While this study provides insight into potential biological associations, it does not change current prenatal care standards or individual screening recommendations. If you have concerns about your child's neurodevelopment or behavioral health, it is worth discussing these questions with a pediatrician.
The takeaway
These findings highlight a possible link between placental health and childhood neurodevelopmental risks. Parents concerned about developmental markers or behavioral changes in children should consult a healthcare provider to discuss appropriate screenings or evaluations.
Further reading
For more on maternal health and developmental science, see our Pregnancy section.
More information
View the University of Iowa department research news for additional details on this study.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Contemporarypediatrics.
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