Main findings
This study revealed a CNS functional alteration in the encoding of speech sounds in LGA neonates born at term. Using the FFR, an electrophysiological probe revealing the neural encoding of speech stimuli, we showed for the first time a weaker pitch encoding in LGA neonates compared with a control group of AGA neonates, as quantified through the FFR spectral amplitude and its normalization (SNR estimation). Group differences in pitch encoding were present in the absence of any differences in neural transmission timing as indicated by ABR’s wave V latency, and equivalent spontaneous EEG activity (i.e., pre-stimulus RMS). Moreover, these effects were related to the neonates’ adipose tissue but not to that of their mothers or their gestational weight gain.