What if we could peek into the developing brain before birth? In this episode we welcome Prof. Hubert Preissl, head of the research group Metabolic Neuroimaging at the University of Tübingen, who talks about the fascinating science of fetal brain development. Using fetal magnetoencephalography (fMEG) - with one of two systems worldwide right in Tübingen - researchers can measure fetal brain activity and uncover how a mother’s metabolic health and stress influence fetal development. Besides talking about early recordings of sex differences in brain development, we consider clinical implications and how insights into fetal brain activity may transform our understanding of mental health across the lifespan. From the origins of brain function to lifelong (mental) health, this conversation will change how you think about the very beginning of life.

If you would like to get in touch with Hubert, you can find him here: https://preissl-lab.net/de/people/prof-dr-hubert-preissl/

... or reach him at: [email protected]

Timestamps:

00:26: Introduction of our guest Prof. Hubert Preissl and his field of research

01:49: When does the fetal brain start to develop?

02:37: How do scientists study fetal brain activity?

06:54: How does fetal magnetoencephalography work & what are challenges?

14:05: The concept of developmental origins of health & disease

20:20: Maternal metabolic health & the influence on fetal brain activity

26:58: Maternal psychological stress & the influence on fetal brain activity

29:40: Longterm consequences of metabolic & psychological health on cognitive & emotional development in offspring

32:57: Sex differences in fetal brain development

38:01: Summary

38:58: What are clinical implications for maternal health interventions?

43:32: How might our understanding of the fetal brain impact our perspective on mental health across the lifespan?

45:50: Call for applications!

46:50: Closing remarks

Outline & questions: Franziska Weinmar

Sound recording & Editing: Franziska Weinmar with the equipment of the IRTG2804

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