The Fetal Matrix: Evolution, Development and Disease

by Peter Gluckman

New discoveries indicate that the most important interactions in determining our fate occur before birth. These processes are an evolutionary echo of mechanisms which allowed our ancestors to survive as hunter-gatherers. Two of the world's leading pioneering authorities reveal exciting insights into a rapidly emerging field. They suggest new ways of protecting the health of the fetus, infant and adult and cover important triggers for many emerging diseases such as obesity, diabetes and heart disease.

Genres: Science, Biology, Health

272 pages, Paperback

First published September 15, 2004

About the author

Sir Peter Gluckman is University Distinguished Professor and Director of the Centre for Science in Policy, Diplomacy and Society at the University of Auckland and Chief Scientific Officer for the Singapore Institute for Clinical Sciences. He is president of the International Network for Government Science Advice. He was the chief science advisor to the prime minister of New Zealand from 2009 to 2018.

Reviews

[Muriel · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is not a book review for other readers.

(Just a nostalgic note for myself.

These books formed an important foundation for my grad school research. Written by scientist, it was no less than accessible than those by professional writer/journalist. I remember my shock and surprise when reading this book for the first time. But the ideas have long since been internalized. I miss my days with affiliation to research libraries where these books are available.)

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderfully good biology book on the interactions between genes and the environment. The only problem I had with the book is that it can get rather repetitive; they had to have restated their hypothesis 12 times! Other than that it is a really fantastic read.

[Mike · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book presents a watershed idea that the most significant influences on risk of the so called "life style" diseases (heart attach, stroke, obesity, type 2 diabetes, etc.) occur before birth.