1
|
Jeltsch BM, Hanson JVM, Füglistaler J, Heyard R, Sisera L, Wehrle FM, Hagmann CF, Fauchère JC, Gerth-Kahlert C. The effect of perinatal high-dose erythropoietin on retinal structural and vascular characteristics in children born preterm. Am J Ophthalmol 2024:S0002-9394(24)00242-3. [PMID: 38880371 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajo.2024.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2024] [Revised: 06/05/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE To study the long-term effects of perinatal high-dose recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) on macular structural and vascular development in preterm children. DESIGN Randomized, double-blind clinical trial follow-up plus cohort study. METHODS Setting: Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland. STUDY POPULATION extremely or very preterm born children aged 7-15 years from an ongoing neuropediatric study (EpoKids). These had been previously randomized to receive either high-dose rhEPO or placebo perinatally. INCLUSION CRITERIA participation in the EpoKids Study, written informed consent (IC). EXCLUSION CRITERIA previous ocular trauma or surgery; retinal or developmental disease unrelated to prematurity. Term-born children of comparable age were enrolled as a healthy control (HC) group. INCLUSION CRITERIA term birth, IC. EXCLUSION CRITERIA any ocular or visual abnormality, high refractive error. Examiners were blinded regarding intervention status until completion of all analyses. (Participants/guardians remain blinded). OBSERVATION PROCEDURES Spectral-domain OCT scans (Heidelberg Spectralis system) and OCTA imaging (Zeiss PlexElite 9000) were obtained. Ophthalmological and orthoptic examinations excluded ocular comorbidities. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES OCT (central retinal thickness, CRT; total macular volume, TMV), superficial plexus OCTA (foveal avascular zone, FAZ; vessel density, VD; vessel length density, VLD) parameters and foveal hypoplasia grade according to published criteria. RESULTS Macular vessel density parameters (VD and VLD) were significantly lower (p =0.015, CI-95: 0.01 to 0.06 and p=0.015, CI-95: 0.74 to 3.64) in the EPO group (n= 52) when compared to placebo (n=35). No other significant differences were observed between the EPO and placebo group. When comparing the intervention subgroups to HC we found six significant differences in OCT and OCTA parameters (FAZ, VD, VLD and CRT comparing HC and EPO group; FAZ and CRT when comparing HC and placebo group). CONCLUSIONS Early high-dose rhEPO in infants born extremely or very preterm affects macular vessel density parameters compared to placebo. Premature birth (regardless of intervention status) affects retinal structure and vascular development. Our findings on macular vascular development do not contraindicate the administration of early high-dose EPO in preterm infants. For further understanding of the role of EPO on macular development and its clinical significance, future studies are needed.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brida M Jeltsch
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - James V M Hanson
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jonas Füglistaler
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Rachel Heyard
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Lorena Sisera
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Flavia M Wehrle
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia F Hagmann
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Claude Fauchère
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christina Gerth-Kahlert
- Department of Ophthalmology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 24, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Chen YC, Cheng SJ, Hsieh LC, Shyu HY, Chen MH, Chen CY, Kuo DP. A prospective reappraisal of motor outcome prediction in patients with acute stroke by using atlas-based diffusion tensor imaging biomarkers. Top Stroke Rehabil 2024; 31:199-210. [PMID: 37209060 DOI: 10.1080/10749357.2023.2214977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/13/2023] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) biomarkers can be used to quantify microstructural changes in the cerebral white matter (WM) following injury. OBJECTIVES This prospective single-center study aimed to evaluate whether atlas-based DTI-derived metrics obtained within 1 week after stroke can predict the motor outcome at 3 months. METHODS Forty patients with small acute stroke (2-7 days after onset) involving the corticospinal tract were included. Each patient underwent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) within 1 week and at 3 months after stroke, and the changes based on DTI-derived metrics were compared by performing WM tract atlas-based quantitative analysis. RESULTS A total of 40 patients were included, with median age 63.5 years and a majority of males (72.5%). Patients were classified into good-prognosis group (mRS 0-2, n = 27) and poor-prognosis group (mRS 3-5, n = 13) by outcome. The median (25th-75th percentile) of MD (0.7 (0.6-0.7) vs. 0.7 (0.7-0.8); p = 0.049) and AD (0.6 (0.5, 0.7) vs. 0.7 (0.6, 0.8); p = 0.023) ratios within 1 week were significantly lower in the poor-prognosis group compared to the good-prognosis group. The ROC curve of the combined DTI-derived metrics model showed comparable Youden index (65.5% vs. 58.4%-65.4%) and higher specificity (96.3% vs. 69.2%-88.5%) compared to clinical indexes. The area under the ROC curve of the combined DTI-derived metrics model is comparable to those of the clinical indexes (all p > 0.1) and higher than those of the individual DTI-derived metrics parameters. CONCLUSIONS Atlas-based DTI-derived metrics at acute stage provide objective information for prognosis prediction of patients with ischemic or lacunar stroke.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yung-Chieh Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Translational Imaging Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Sho-Jen Cheng
- Department of Medical Imaging, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Translational Imaging Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Li-Chun Hsieh
- Department of Medical Imaging, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hann-Yeh Shyu
- Section of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Ming-Hua Chen
- Section of Neurology, Department of Internal Medicine, Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Cheng-Yu Chen
- Department of Medical Imaging, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, School of Medicine, College of Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Research Center for Artificial Intelligence in Medicine, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, National Defense Medical Center, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Duen-Pang Kuo
- Department of Medical Imaging, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Translational Imaging Research Center, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
- Department of Radiology, Taoyuan Armed Forces General Hospital, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Lubián-Gutiérrez M, Benavente-Fernández I, Marín-Almagro Y, Jiménez-Luque N, Zuazo-Ojeda A, Sánchez-Sandoval Y, Lubián-López SP. Corpus callosum long-term biometry in very preterm children related to cognitive and motor outcomes. Pediatr Res 2024:10.1038/s41390-023-02994-4. [PMID: 38225451 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-023-02994-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/22/2023] [Revised: 12/03/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The corpus callosum (CC) is suggested as an indirect biomarker of white matter volume, which is often affected in preterm birth. However, diagnosing mild white matter injury is challenging. METHODS We studied 124 children born preterm (mean age: 8.4 ± 1.1 years), using MRI to assess CC measurements and cognitive/motor outcomes based on the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children-V (WPPSI-V) and Movement Assessment Battery for Children-2 (MABC-2). RESULTS Children with normal outcomes exhibited greater height (10.2 ± 2.1 mm vs. 9.4 ± 2.3 mm; p = 0.01) and fractional anisotropy at splenium (895[680-1000] vs 860.5[342-1000]) and total CC length (69.1 ± 4.8 mm vs. 67.3 ± 5.1 mm; p = 0.02) compared to those with adverse outcomes. All measured CC areas were smaller in the adverse outcome group. Models incorporating posterior CC measurements demonstrated the highest specificity (83.3% Sp, AUC: 0.65) for predicting neurological outcomes. CC length and splenium height were the only linear measurements associated with manual dexterity and total MABC-2 score while both the latter and genu were related with Full-Scale Intelligence Quotient. CONCLUSIONS CC biometry in children born very preterm at school-age is associated with outcomes and exhibits a specific subregion alteration pattern. The posterior CC may serve as an important neurodevelopmental biomarker in very preterm infants. IMPACT The corpus callosum has the potential to serve as a reliable and easily measurable biomarker of white matter integrity in very preterm children. Estimating diffuse white matter injury in preterm infants using conventional MRI sequences is not always conclusive. The biometry of the posterior part of the corpus callosum is associated with cognitive and certain motor outcomes at school age in children born very preterm. Length and splenium measurements seem to serve as reliable biomarkers for assessing neurological outcomes in this population.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Manuel Lubián-Gutiérrez
- Division of Neurology, Department of Paediatrics, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
- Area of Paediatrics, Department of Child and Mother Health and Radiology, Medical School, University of Cádiz, C/Doctor Marañón, 3, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Isabel Benavente-Fernández
- Area of Paediatrics, Department of Child and Mother Health and Radiology, Medical School, University of Cádiz, C/Doctor Marañón, 3, Cádiz, Spain.
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain.
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain.
| | - Yolanda Marín-Almagro
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Natalia Jiménez-Luque
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Amaya Zuazo-Ojeda
- Radiology Department, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Yolanda Sánchez-Sandoval
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
- Area of Developmental and Educational Psychology, Department of Psychology, University of Cádiz, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Simón P Lubián-López
- Biomedical Research and Innovation Institute of Cádiz (INiBICA) Research Unit, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Paediatrics, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, Cádiz, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Siffredi V, Liverani MC, Van De Ville D, Freitas LGA, Borradori Tolsa C, Hüppi PS, Ha-Vinh Leuchter R. Corpus callosum structural characteristics in very preterm children and adolescents: Developmental trajectory and relationship to cognitive functioning. Dev Cogn Neurosci 2023; 60:101211. [PMID: 36780739 PMCID: PMC9925611 DOI: 10.1016/j.dcn.2023.101211] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/16/2022] [Revised: 02/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2023] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that structural alteration of the corpus callosum, i.e., the largest white matter commissural pathway, occurs after a preterm birth in the neonatal period and lasts across development. The present study aims to unravel corpus callosum structural characteristics across childhood and adolescence in very preterm (VPT) individuals, and their associations with general intellectual, executive and socio-emotional functioning. Neuropsychological assessments, T1-weighted and multi-shell diffusion MRI were collected in 79 VPT and 46 full term controls aged 6-14 years. Volumetric, diffusion tensor and neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) measures were extracted on 7 callosal portions using TractSeg. A multivariate data-driven approach (partial least squares correlation) and a cohort-based age normative modelling approach were used to explore associations between callosal characteristics and neuropsychological outcomes. The VPT and a full-term control groups showed similar trends of white-matter maturation over time, i.e., increase FA and reduced ODI, in all callosal segments, that was associated with increase in general intellectual functioning. However, using a cohort-based age-related normative modelling, findings show atypical pattern of callosal development in the VPT group, with reduced callosal maturation over time that was associated with poorer general intellectual and working memory functioning, as well as with lower gestational age.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Siffredi
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Neuro-X Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland.
| | - Maria Chiara Liverani
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; SensoriMotor, Affective and Social Development Laboratory, Faculty of Psychology and Educational Sciences, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Dimitri Van De Ville
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Neuro-X Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Lorena G A Freitas
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland; Neuro-X Institute, École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Geneva, Switzerland; Department of Radiology and Medical Informatics, Faculty of Medicine, University of Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Cristina Borradori Tolsa
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Petra Susan Hüppi
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Russia Ha-Vinh Leuchter
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, Gynaecology and Obstetrics, Geneva University Hospitals, Geneva, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Wang W, Yu Q, Liang W, Xu F, Li Z, Tang Y, Liu S. Altered cortical microstructure in preterm infants at term-equivalent age relative to term-born neonates. Cereb Cortex 2023; 33:651-662. [PMID: 35259759 DOI: 10.1093/cercor/bhac091] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Revised: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/08/2022] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Preterm (PT) birth is a potential factor for abnormal brain development. Although various alterations of cortical structure and functional connectivity in preterm infants have been reported, the underlying microstructural foundation is still undetected thoroughly in PT infants relative to full-term (FT) neonates. To detect the very early cortical microstructural alteration noninvasively with advanced neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) on a whole-brain basis, we used multi-shell diffusion MRI of healthy newborns selected from the Developing Human Connectome Project. 73 PT infants and 69 FT neonates scanned at term-equivalent age were included in this study. By extracting the core voxels of gray matter (GM) using GM-based spatial statistics (GBSS), we found that comparing to FT neonates, infants born preterm showed extensive lower neurite density in both primary and higher-order association cortices (FWE corrected, P < 0.025). Higher orientation dispersion was only found in very preterm subgroup in the orbitofrontal cortex, fronto-insular cortex, entorhinal cortex, a portion of posterior cingular gyrus, and medial parieto-occipital cortex. This study provided new insights into exploring structural MR for functional and behavioral variations in preterm population, and these findings may have marked clinical importance, particularly in the guidance of ameliorating the development of premature brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Wenjun Wang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Research Center for Sectional and Imaging Anatomy, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Shandong Key Laboratory of Digital Human and Clinical Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Qiaowen Yu
- Department of Medical Imaging, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Wenjia Liang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Research Center for Sectional and Imaging Anatomy, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Shandong Key Laboratory of Digital Human and Clinical Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Feifei Xu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Research Center for Sectional and Imaging Anatomy, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Shandong Key Laboratory of Digital Human and Clinical Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Zhuoran Li
- Department of Ultrasound, Shandong Provincial Hospital Affiliated to Shandong First Medical University, Jinan, Shandong, 250021, China
| | - Yuchun Tang
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Research Center for Sectional and Imaging Anatomy, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Shandong Key Laboratory of Digital Human and Clinical Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| | - Shuwei Liu
- Department of Anatomy and Neurobiology, Research Center for Sectional and Imaging Anatomy, Shandong Key Laboratory of Mental Disorders, Shandong Key Laboratory of Digital Human and Clinical Anatomy, School of Basic Medical Sciences, Cheeloo College of Medicine, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
- Institute of Brain and Brain-Inspired Science, Shandong University, Jinan, Shandong, 250012, China
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Pierre WC, Zhang E, Londono I, De Leener B, Lesage F, Lodygensky GA. Non-invasive in vivo MRI detects long-term microstructural brain alterations related to learning and memory impairments in a model of inflammation-induced white matter injury. Behav Brain Res 2022; 428:113884. [DOI: 10.1016/j.bbr.2022.113884] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2021] [Revised: 03/18/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
|
7
|
Li J, Zhang J, Hao Q, Chen H, Cheng X. Erythropoietin for preventing bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pediatr Pulmonol 2022; 57:1051-1063. [PMID: 35043596 DOI: 10.1002/ppul.25837] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2021] [Revised: 01/15/2022] [Accepted: 01/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recombinant erythropoietin (rEPO) has erythropoiesis and anti-inflammatory properties that might help reduce lung injury in preterm infants. OBJECTIVE To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the possible role of rEPO in altering the risk of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). METHODS PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that evaluated the effects of rEPO for the prevention of BPD in preterm infants. RESULTS Fourteen studies (3199 infants) were included. Our results could not demonstrate a significant effect of rEPO on the incidence of BPD36 (risk ratio [RR]: 0.97, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.87-1.09, p = 0.63, I2 = 0, 12 RCTs, high-quality evidence), BPD28 (RR: 1.28, 95% CI: 0.91-1.79, p = 0.15, I2 = 17%, three RCTs, low-quality evidence) and oxygen dependence days. The test for subgroup analysis by administration route of rEPO showed similar outcomes above. Some of the included trials reported a significant effect of intravenous rEPO on reduction of sepsis (RR: 0.82, 95% CI: 0.70-0.96, p = 0.01, I2 = 0, high-quality evidence) and any stage necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) (RR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.59-0.94, p = 0.01, I2 = 0, moderate-quality evidence). The incidence of mortality and stage II or higher NEC was comparable in rEPO and control infants. CONCLUSION Our results suggest that rEPO does not affect the risk of developing BPD in preterm infants. Adequately powered RCTs are required to further confirm these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jing Li
- Department of Neonatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zheng Zhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Jing Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zheng Zhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Qingfei Hao
- Department of Neonatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zheng Zhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Haoming Chen
- Department of Neonatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zheng Zhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiuyong Cheng
- Department of Neonatology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Zheng Zhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Effect of antenatal magnesium sulphate on MRI biomarkers of white matter development at term equivalent age: The MagNUM Study. EBioMedicine 2022; 78:103923. [PMID: 35331677 PMCID: PMC9043972 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2022.103923] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/25/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Magnesium sulphate given to women prior to very
preterm birth protects the perinatal brain, so fewer babies die or develop
cerebral palsy. How magnesium sulphate exerts these beneficial effects remains
uncertain. The MagNUM Study aimed to assess the effect of exposure to antenatal
magnesium sulphate on MRI measures of brain white matter microstructure at term
equivalent age. Methods Nested cohort study within the Magnesium sulphate at
30 to <34 weeks’ Gestational age Neuroprotection Trial (MAGENTA).
Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry ACTRN12611000491965. Mothers at
risk of preterm birth at 30 to <34 weeks’ gestation were randomised to
receive either 4 g of magnesium sulphate heptahydrate [8 mmol magnesium ions],
or saline placebo, when preterm birth was planned or expected within 24 h.
Participating babies underwent diffusion tensor MRI at term equivalent age. The
main outcomes were fractional anisotropy across the white matter tract skeleton
compared using Tract-based Spatial Statistics (TBSS), with adjustment for
postmenstrual age at birth and at MRI, and MRI site. Researchers and families
were blind to treatment group allocation during data collection and
analyses. Findings Of the 109 babies the demographics of the 49 babies
exposed to magnesium sulphate were similar to the 60 babies exposed to placebo.
In babies whose mothers were allocated to magnesium sulphate, fractional
anisotropy was lower within the corticospinal tracts and corona radiata, the
superior and inferior longitudinal fasciculi, and the inferior fronto-occipital
fasciculi compared to babies whose mothers were allocated placebo
(P < 0·05). Interpretation In babies born preterm after 30 weeks’ gestation,
antenatal magnesium sulphate exposure did not promote development of white
matter microstructure in pathways affecting motor or cognitive function. This
suggests that if the neuroprotective effect of magnesium sulphate treatment
prior to preterm birth is confirmed at this gestation, the mechanisms are not
related to accelerated white matter maturation inferred from fractional
anisotropy. Funding This study was funded by a project grant from the
Health Research Council of New Zealand (HRC 14/153).
Collapse
|
9
|
Perrone S, Lembo C, Gironi F, Petrolini C, Catalucci T, Corbo G, Buonocore G, Gitto E, Esposito SMR. Erythropoietin as a Neuroprotective Drug for Newborn Infants: Ten Years after the First Use. Antioxidants (Basel) 2022; 11:antiox11040652. [PMID: 35453337 PMCID: PMC9031072 DOI: 10.3390/antiox11040652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Revised: 03/19/2022] [Accepted: 03/24/2022] [Indexed: 01/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Protective strategies against perinatal brain injury represent a major challenge for modern neonatology. Erythropoietin (Epo) enhances endogenous mechanisms of repair and angiogenesis. In order to analyse the newest evidence on the role of Epo in prematurity, hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) and perinatal stroke, a critical review using 2020 PRISMA statement guidelines was conducted. This review uncovered 26 clinical trials examining the use of Epo for prematurity and brain injury-related outcomes. The effects of Epo on prematurity were analysed in 16 clinical trials. Erythropoietin was provided until 32–35 weeks of corrected postnatal age with a dosage between 500–3000 UI/kg/dose. Eight trials reported the Epo effects on HIE term newborn infants: Erythropoietin was administered in the first weeks of life, at different multiple doses between 250–2500 UI/kg/dose, as either an adjuvant therapy with hypothermia or a substitute for hypothermia. Two trials investigated Epo effects in perinatal stroke. Erythropoietin was administered at a dose of 1000 IU/kg for three days. No beneficial effect in improving morbidity was observed after Epo administration in perinatal stroke. A positive effect on neurodevelopmental outcome seems to occur when Epo is used as an adjuvant therapy with hypothermia in the HIE newborns. Administration of Epo in preterm infants still presents inconsistencies with regard to neurodevelopmental outcome. Clinical trials show significant differences mainly in target population and intervention scheme. The identification of specific markers and their temporal expression at different time of recovery after hypoxia-ischemia in neonates might be implemented to optimize the therapeutic scheme after hypoxic-ischemic injury in the developing brain. Additional studies on tailored regimes, accounting for the risk stratification of brain damage in newborns, are required.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Serafina Perrone
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.P.); (S.M.R.E.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Chiara Lembo
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.L.); (F.G.); (T.C.); (G.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Federica Gironi
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.L.); (F.G.); (T.C.); (G.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Chiara Petrolini
- Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Parma, 43126 Parma, Italy; (C.P.); (S.M.R.E.)
| | - Tiziana Catalucci
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.L.); (F.G.); (T.C.); (G.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Giulia Corbo
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.L.); (F.G.); (T.C.); (G.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Giuseppe Buonocore
- Department of Molecular and Developmental Medicine, University of Siena, 53100 Siena, Italy; (C.L.); (F.G.); (T.C.); (G.C.); (G.B.)
| | - Eloisa Gitto
- Department of Human Pathology in Adult and Developmental Age “Gaetano Barresi”, University of Messina, 98125 Messina, Italy;
| | | |
Collapse
|
10
|
Free Radicals and Neonatal Brain Injury: From Underlying Pathophysiology to Antioxidant Treatment Perspectives. Antioxidants (Basel) 2021; 10:antiox10122012. [PMID: 34943115 PMCID: PMC8698308 DOI: 10.3390/antiox10122012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Revised: 12/09/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Free radicals play a role of paramount importance in the development of neonatal brain injury. Depending on the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying free radical overproduction and upon specific neonatal characteristics, such as the GA-dependent maturation of antioxidant defenses and of cerebrovascular autoregulation, different profiles of injury have been identified. The growing evidence on the detrimental effects of free radicals on the brain tissue has led to discover not only potential biomarkers for oxidative damage, but also possible neuroprotective therapeutic approaches targeting oxidative stress. While a more extensive validation of free radical biomarkers is required before considering their use in routine neonatal practice, two important treatments endowed with antioxidant properties, such as therapeutic hypothermia and magnesium sulfate, have become part of the standard of care to reduce the risk of neonatal brain injury, and other promising therapeutic strategies are being tested in clinical trials. The implementation of currently available evidence is crucial to optimize neonatal neuroprotection and to develop individualized diagnostic and therapeutic approaches addressing oxidative brain injury, with the final aim of improving the neurological outcome of this population.
Collapse
|
11
|
Motavaf M, Piao X. Oligodendrocyte Development and Implication in Perinatal White Matter Injury. Front Cell Neurosci 2021; 15:764486. [PMID: 34803612 PMCID: PMC8599582 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2021.764486] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2021] [Accepted: 10/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Perinatal white matter injury (WMI) is the most common brain injury in premature infants and can lead to life-long neurological deficits such as cerebral palsy. Preterm birth is typically accompanied by inflammation and hypoxic-ischemic events. Such perinatal insults negatively impact maturation of oligodendrocytes (OLs) and cause myelination failure. At present, no treatment options are clinically available to prevent or cure WMI. Given that arrested OL maturation plays a central role in the etiology of perinatal WMI, an increased interest has emerged regarding the functional restoration of these cells as potential therapeutic strategy. Cell transplantation and promoting endogenous oligodendrocyte function are two potential options to address this major unmet need. In this review, we highlight the underlying pathophysiology of WMI with a specific focus on OL biology and their implication for the development of new therapeutic targets.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahsa Motavaf
- Functional Neurosurgery Research Center, Shohada Tajrish Comprehensive Neurosurgical Center of Excellence, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Xianhua Piao
- Eli and Edythe Broad Center of Regeneration Medicine and Stem Cell Research, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Newborn Brain Research Institute, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Weill Institute for Neuroscience, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States.,Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of California, San Francisco, San Francisco, CA, United States
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Diffusion Tensor Imaging Changes Do Not Affect Long-Term Neurodevelopment following Early Erythropoietin among Extremely Preterm Infants in the Preterm Erythropoietin Neuroprotection Trial. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11101360. [PMID: 34679424 PMCID: PMC8533828 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11101360] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2021] [Revised: 10/12/2021] [Accepted: 10/14/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
We aimed to evaluate diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) in infants born extremely preterm, to determine the effect of erythropoietin (Epo) on DTI, and to correlate DTI with neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 years of age for infants in the Preterm Erythropoietin Neuroprotection (PENUT) Trial. Infants who underwent MRI with DTI at 36 weeks postmenstrual age were included. Neurodevelopmental outcomes were evaluated by Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development (BSID-III). Generalized linear models were used to assess the association between DTI parameters and treatment group, and then with neurodevelopmental outcomes. A total of 101 placebo- and 93 Epo-treated infants underwent MRI. DTI white matter mean diffusivity (MD) was lower in placebo- compared to Epo-treated infants in the cingulate and occipital regions, and occipital white matter fractional isotropy (FA) was lower in infants born at 24-25 weeks vs. 26-27 weeks. These values were not associated with lower BSID-III scores. Certain decreases in clustering coefficients tended to have lower BSID-III scores. Consistent with the PENUT Trial findings, there was no effect on long-term neurodevelopment in Epo-treated infants even in the presence of microstructural changes identified by DTI.
Collapse
|
13
|
Structural and functional motor-network disruptions predict selective action-concept deficits: Evidence from frontal lobe epilepsy. Cortex 2021; 144:43-55. [PMID: 34637999 DOI: 10.1016/j.cortex.2021.08.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2020] [Revised: 07/12/2021] [Accepted: 08/05/2021] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Built on neurodegenerative lesions models, the disrupted motor grounding hypothesis (DMGH) posits that motor-system alterations selectively impair action comprehension. However, major doubts remain concerning the dissociability, neural signatures, and etiological generalizability of such deficits. Few studies have compared action-concept outcomes between disorders affecting and sparing motor circuitry, and none has examined their multimodal network predictors via data-driven approaches. Here, we first assessed action- and object-concept processing in patients with frontal lobe epilepsy (FLE), patients with posterior cortex epilepsy (PCE), and healthy controls. Then, we examined structural and functional network signatures via diffusion tensor imaging and resting-state connectivity measures. Finally, we used these measures to predict behavioral performance with an XGBoost machine learning regression algorithm. Relative to controls, FLE (but not PCE) patients exhibited selective action-concept deficits together with structural and functional abnormalities along motor networks. The XGBoost model reached a significantly large effect size only for action-concept outcomes in FLE, mainly predicted by structural (cortico-spinal tract, anterior thalamic radiation, uncinate fasciculus) and functional (M1-parietal/supramarginal connectivity) motor networks. These results extend the DMGH, suggesting that action-concept deficits are dissociable markers of frontal/motor (relative to posterior) disruptions, directly related to the structural and functional integrity of motor networks, and traceable beyond canonical movement disorders.
Collapse
|
14
|
Effect of blood transfusions on cognitive development in very low birth weight infants. J Perinatol 2021; 41:1412-1418. [PMID: 33911186 PMCID: PMC8238787 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-021-00997-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2020] [Revised: 12/16/2020] [Accepted: 02/04/2021] [Indexed: 01/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Preterm infants frequently receive red cell transfusions; however, the effect of transfusions on cognition is unclear. We evaluated the relationship between transfusions and cognitive outcomes in preterm infants enrolled in a randomized trial of erythropoiesis stimulating agents (ESAs). STUDY DESIGN Preterm infants were randomized to ESAs or placebo during initial hospitalization, and transfusions recorded. Children were evaluated using standard developmental tests of cognition at 18-22 months (56 ESA, 24 placebo) and 3.5-4 years (39 ESA, 14 placebo). RESULTS Cognitive scores at 18-22 months were inversely correlated with transfusion volume (p = 0.02). Among those receiving ≥1 transfusion, cognitive scores were significantly higher in the ESA-treated group (p = 0.003). At 3.5-4 years, transfusions were not correlated with cognitive scores. CONCLUSIONS In the placebo group, transfused children had lower cognitive scores than did non-transfused children at 18-22 months. In the ESA group, cognitive scores did not differ by transfusion status, suggesting ESAs might provide neuroprotection.
Collapse
|
15
|
Ma X, Shi Y. Whether erythropoietin can be a neuroprotective agent against premature brain injury: cellular mechanisms and clinical efficacy. Curr Neuropharmacol 2021; 20:611-629. [PMID: 34030616 DOI: 10.2174/1570159x19666210524154519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 04/27/2021] [Accepted: 05/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm infants are at high risk of brain injury. With more understanding of the preterm brain injury's pathogenesis, neuroscientists are looking for more effective methods to prevent and treat it, among which erythropoietin (Epo) is considered as a prime candidate. This review tries to clarify the possible mechanisms of Epo in preterm neuroprotection and summarize updated evidence considering Epo as a pharmacological neuroprotective strategy in animal models and clinical trials. To date, various animal models have validated that Epo is an anti-apoptotic, anti-inflammatory, anti-oxidant, anti-excitotoxic, neurogenetic, erythropoietic, angiogenetic, and neurotrophic agent, thus preventing preterm brain injury. However, although the scientific rationale and preclinical data for Epo's neuroprotective effect are promising, when translated to bedside, the results vary in different studies, especially in its long-term efficacy. Based on existing evidence, it is still too early to recommend Epo as the standard treatment for preterm brain injury.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xueling Ma
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University; National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders; Chongqing 400014, China
| | - Yuan Shi
- Department of Neonatology, Children's Hospital of Chongqing Medical University; National Clinical Research Center for Child Health and Disorders; Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Child Development and Disorders; Chongqing 400014, China
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
A Brief Review on Erythropoietin and Mesenchymal Stem Cell Therapies for Paediatric Neurological Disorders. CURRENT STEM CELL REPORTS 2021. [DOI: 10.1007/s40778-021-00189-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
|
17
|
Song J, Wang Y, Xu F, Sun H, Zhang X, Xia L, Zhang S, Li K, Peng X, Li B, Zhang Y, Kang W, Wang X, Zhu C. Erythropoietin Improves Poor Outcomes in Preterm Infants with Intraventricular Hemorrhage. CNS Drugs 2021; 35:681-690. [PMID: 33959935 PMCID: PMC8219571 DOI: 10.1007/s40263-021-00817-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 04/15/2021] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) is a common complication in preterm infants that has poor outcomes, especially in severe cases, and there are currently no widely accepted effective treatments. Erythropoietin has been shown to be neuroprotective in neonatal brain injury. OBJECTIVE The objective of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of repeated low-dose recombinant human erythropoietin (rhEPO) in preterm infants with IVH. METHODS This was a single-blinded prospective randomized controlled trial. Preterm infants ≤ 32 weeks gestational age who were diagnosed with IVH within 72 h after birth were randomized to receive rhEPO 500 IU/kg or placebo (equivalent volume of saline) every other day for 2 weeks. The primary outcome was death or neurological disability assessed at 18 months of corrected age. RESULTS A total of 316 eligible infants were included in the study, with 157 in the rhEPO group and 159 in the placebo group. Although no significant differences in mortality (p = 0.176) or incidence of neurological disability (p = 0.055) separately at 18 months of corrected age were seen between the rhEPO and placebo groups, significantly fewer infants had poor outcomes (death and neurological disability) in the rhEPO group: 14.9 vs. 26.4%; odds ratio (OR) 0.398; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.199-0.796; p = 0.009. In addition, the incidence of Mental Development Index scores of < 70 was lower in the rhEPO group than in the placebo group: 7.2 vs. 15.3%; OR 0.326; 95% CI 0.122-0.875; p = 0.026. CONCLUSIONS Treatment with repeated low-dose rhEPO improved outcomes in preterm infants with IVH. TRIAL REGISTRATION The study was retrospectively registered on ClinicalTrials.gov on 16 April 2019 (NCT03914690).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Juan Song
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Yong Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Falin Xu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Huiqing Sun
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450018 China
| | - Xiaoli Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Lei Xia
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Shan Zhang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Kenan Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Xirui Peng
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Bingbing Li
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China
| | - Yaodong Zhang
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450018 China
| | - Wenqing Kang
- Department of Neonatology, Children’s Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450018 China
| | - Xiaoyang Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052 China ,Center for Perinatal Medicine and Health, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530 Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Changlian Zhu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury and Henan Pediatric Clinical Research Center, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, 450052, China. .,Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, 40530, Gothenburg, Sweden. .,Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Qiu H, Qian T, Wu T, Wang X, Zhu C, Chen C, Wang L. Umbilical cord blood cells for the treatment of preterm white matter injury: Potential effects and treatment options. J Neurosci Res 2020; 99:778-792. [PMID: 33207392 DOI: 10.1002/jnr.24751] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2020] [Revised: 10/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Preterm birth is a global public health problem. A large number of preterm infants survive with preterm white matter injury (PWMI), which leads to neurological deficits, and has multifaceted etiology, clinical course, monitoring, and outcomes. The principal upstream insults leading to PWMI initiation are hypoxia-ischemia and infection and/or inflammation and the key target cells are late oligodendrocyte precursor cells. Current PWMI treatments are mainly supportive, and thus have little effect in terms of protecting the immature brain or repairing injury to improve long-term outcomes. Umbilical cord blood (UCB) cells comprise abundant immunomodulatory and stem cells, which have the potential to reduce brain injury, mainly due to anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory mechanisms, and also through their release of neurotrophic or growth factors to promote endogenous neurogenesis. In this review, we briefly summarize PWMI pathogenesis and pathophysiology, and the specific properties of different cell types in UCB. We further explore the potential mechanism by which UCB can be used to treat PWMI, and discuss the advantages of and potential issues related to UCB cell therapy. Finally, we suggest potential future studies of UCB cell therapy in preterm infants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Han Qiu
- Key Laboratory of Neonatal Diseases of Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Shanghai, China.,Department of Neonatology, National Children's Medical Center/Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tianyang Qian
- Key Laboratory of Neonatal Diseases of Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Shanghai, China.,Department of Neonatology, National Children's Medical Center/Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Tong Wu
- Key Laboratory of Neonatal Diseases of Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Shanghai, China.,Department of Neonatology, National Children's Medical Center/Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Xiaoyang Wang
- Center of Perinatal Medicine and Health, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Changlian Zhu
- Center of Perinatal Medicine and Health, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden.,Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Institute of Neuroscience and Third Affiliated Hospital, Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Chao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Neonatal Diseases of Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Shanghai, China.,Department of Neonatology, National Children's Medical Center/Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| | - Laishuan Wang
- Key Laboratory of Neonatal Diseases of Health Commission of the People's Republic of China, Shanghai, China.,Department of Neonatology, National Children's Medical Center/Children's Hospital of Fudan University, Shanghai, China
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Jakab A, Natalucci G, Koller B, Tuura R, Rüegger C, Hagmann C. Mental development is associated with cortical connectivity of the ventral and nonspecific thalamus of preterm newborns. Brain Behav 2020; 10:e01786. [PMID: 32790242 PMCID: PMC7559616 DOI: 10.1002/brb3.1786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2019] [Revised: 06/18/2020] [Accepted: 07/19/2020] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The thalamus is a key hub for regulating cortical connectivity. Dysmaturation of thalamocortical networks that accompany white matter injury has been hypothesized as neuroanatomical correlate of late life neurocognitive impairment following preterm birth. Our objective was to find a link between thalamocortical connectivity measures at term equivalent age and two-year neurodevelopmental outcome in preterm infants. METHODS Diffusion tensor MRI data of 58 preterm infants (postmenstrual age at birth, mean (SD), 29.71 (1.47) weeks) were used in the study. We utilized probabilistic diffusion tractography to trace connections between the cortex and thalami. Possible associations between connectivity strength, the length of the probabilistic fiber pathways, and developmental scores (Bayley Scales of Infant Development, Second Edition) were analyzed using multivariate linear regression models. RESULTS We found strong correlation between mental developmental index and two complementary measures of thalamocortical networks: Connectivity strength projected to a cortical skeleton and pathway length emerging from thalamic voxels (partial correlation, R = .552 and R = .535, respectively, threshold-free cluster enhancement, corrected p-value < .05), while psychomotor development was not associated with thalamocortical connectivity. Post hoc stepwise linear regression analysis revealed that parental socioeconomic scale, postmenstrual age, and the duration of mechanical ventilation at the intensive care unit contribute to the variability of outcome. CONCLUSIONS Our findings independently validated previous observations in preterm infants, providing additional evidence injury or dysmaturation of tracts emerging from ventral-specific and various nonspecific thalamus projecting to late-maturing cortical regions are predictive of mental, but not psychomotor developmental outcomes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andras Jakab
- Center for MR Research, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Giancarlo Natalucci
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Child Development Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Brigitte Koller
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ruth Tuura
- Center for MR Research, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Christoph Rüegger
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital of Zurich, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Hagmann
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.,Child Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Poppe T, Thompson B, Boardman JP, Bastin ME, Alsweiler J, Deib G, Harding JE, Crowther CA. Effect of antenatal magnesium sulphate on MRI biomarkers of white matter development at term equivalent age: The magnum study. EBioMedicine 2020; 59:102957. [PMID: 32858399 PMCID: PMC7452670 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2020.102957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Magnesium sulphate given to women immediately prior to very preterm birth protects the perinatal brain, so fewer babies die or develop cerebral palsy. How magnesium sulphate exerts these beneficial effects remains uncertain. The aim of the MagNUM Study was to assess the effect of exposure to antenatal magnesium sulphate on MRI measures of brain white matter microstructure at term equivalent age. Methods Nested cohort study within the randomised Magnesium sulphate at 30 to <34 weeks’ Gestational age Neuroprotection Trial (MAGENTA). Mothers at risk of preterm birth at 30 to <34 weeks’ gestation were randomised to receive either 4 g of magnesium sulphate heptahydrate [8 mmol magnesium ions], or saline placebo, infused over 30 min when preterm birth was planned or expected within 24 h. Participating babies underwent diffusion tensor MRI at term equivalent age. The main outcomes were fractional anisotropy across the white matter tract skeleton compared using Tract-based Spatial Statistics (TBSS), with adjustment for postmenstrual age at birth and at MRI, and MRI site. Researchers and families were blind to treatment group allocation during data collection and analyses. Findings Of the 109 participating babies the demographics of the 60 babies exposed to magnesium sulphate were similar to the 49 babies exposed to placebo. In babies whose mothers were allocated to magnesium sulphate, fractional anisotropy was higher within the corticospinal tracts and corona radiata, the superior and inferior longitudinal fasciculi, and the inferior fronto-occipital fasciculi compared to babies whose mothers were allocated placebo (P < 0.05). Interpretation In babies born preterm, antenatal magnesium sulphate exposure promotes development of white matter microstructure in pathways affecting both motor and cognitive function. This may be one mechanism for the neuroprotective effect of magnesium sulphate treatment prior to preterm birth. Funding Health Research Council of New Zealand.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tanya Poppe
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; Centre for the Developing Brain, Department of Biomedical Engineering and Imaging Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Benjamin Thompson
- Department of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand; School of Optometry and Vision Science, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Canada
| | - James P Boardman
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom; MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Mark E Bastin
- Centre for Clinical Brain Sciences, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Jane Alsweiler
- Department of Paediatrics: Child and Youth Health, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Gerard Deib
- Department of Radiology, West Virginia University Hospital, W.Va, United States
| | - Jane E Harding
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Building 503, Level 2, 85 Park Road, Auckland 1142, New Zealand
| | - Caroline A Crowther
- Liggins Institute, University of Auckland, Building 503, Level 2, 85 Park Road, Auckland 1142, New Zealand.
| | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Maxwell JR, Ohls RK. Update on Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents Administered to Neonates for Neuroprotection. Neoreviews 2020; 20:e622-e635. [PMID: 31676737 DOI: 10.1542/neo.20-11-e622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) such as erythropoietin and darbepoetin have been studied as red blood cell growth factors in preterm and term infants for more than 30 years. Recently, studies have focused on the potential neuroprotective effects of ESAs. In this review, we summarize preclinical animal models and recent clinical trials that provide evidence for ESAs as potential treatments to improve neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm and term infants.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jessie R Maxwell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Robin K Ohls
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, UT
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Dewan MV, Serdar M, van de Looij Y, Kowallick M, Hadamitzky M, Endesfelder S, Fandrey J, Sizonenko SV, Herz J, Felderhoff-Müser U, Bendix I. Repetitive Erythropoietin Treatment Improves Long-Term Neurocognitive Outcome by Attenuating Hyperoxia-Induced Hypomyelination in the Developing Brain. Front Neurol 2020; 11:804. [PMID: 32903382 PMCID: PMC7434837 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00804] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Preterm infants born before 28 weeks of gestation are at high risk of neurodevelopmental impairment in later life. Cerebral white and gray matter injury is associated with adverse outcomes. High oxygen levels, often unavoidable in neonatal intensive care, have been identified as one of the main contributing factors to preterm brain injury. Thus, preventive and therapeutic strategies against hyperoxia-induced brain injury are needed. Erythropoietin (Epo) is a promising and also neuroprotective candidate due to its clinical use in infants as erythropoiesis-stimulating agent. Objective: The objective of this study was to investigate the effects of repetitive Epo treatment on the cerebral white matter and long-term motor-cognitive outcome in a neonatal rodent model of hyperoxia-induced brain injury. Methods: Three-day old Wistar rats were exposed to hyperoxia (48 h, 80% oxygen). Four doses of Epo (5,000 IU/kg body weight per day) were applied intraperitoneally from P3-P6 with the first dose at the onset of hyperoxia. Oligodendrocyte maturation and myelination were evaluated via immunohistochemistry and Western blot on P11. Motor-cognitive deficits were assessed in a battery of complex behavior tests (Open Field, Novel Object Recognition, Barnes maze) in adolescent and fully adult animals. Following behavior tests animals underwent post-mortem diffusion tensor imaging to investigate long-lasting microstructural alterations of the white matter. Results: Repetitive treatment with Epo significantly improved myelination deficits following neonatal hyperoxia at P11. Behavioral testing revealed attenuated hyperoxia-induced cognitive deficits in Epo-treated adolescent and adult rats. Conclusion: A multiple Epo dosage regimen protects the developing brain against hyperoxia-induced brain injury by improving myelination and long-term cognitive outcome. Though current clinical studies on short-term outcome of Epo-treated prematurely born children contradict our findings, long-term effects up to adulthood are still lacking. Our data support the essential need for long-term follow-up of preterm infants in current clinical trials.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monia Vanessa Dewan
- Department of Paediatrics I, Neonatology and Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Meray Serdar
- Department of Paediatrics I, Neonatology and Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Yohan van de Looij
- Division of Child Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
- Center for Biomedical Imaging, Animal Imaging and Technology, Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Mirjam Kowallick
- Department of Paediatrics I, Neonatology and Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Hadamitzky
- Institute of Medical Psychology and Behavioural Immunobiology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Joachim Fandrey
- Institute of Physiology, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Stéphane V. Sizonenko
- Division of Child Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, School of Medicine, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Josephine Herz
- Department of Paediatrics I, Neonatology and Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ursula Felderhoff-Müser
- Department of Paediatrics I, Neonatology and Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Ivo Bendix
- Department of Paediatrics I, Neonatology and Experimental Perinatal Neurosciences, University Hospital Essen, University Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Volpe JJ. Commentary - Do the negative results of the PENUT trial close the book on erythropoietin for premature infant brain? J Neonatal Perinatal Med 2020; 13:149-152. [PMID: 32333558 PMCID: PMC7369037 DOI: 10.3233/npm-200444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/19/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Volpe
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA.,Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm infants have low plasma levels of erythropoietin (EPO), providing a rationale for the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) to prevent or treat anaemia and to provide neuro protection and protection against necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). Darbepoetin (Darbe) and EPO are currently available ESAs. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness and safety of ESAs (erythropoietin (EPO) and/or Darbe) initiated early (before eight days after birth) compared with placebo or no intervention in reducing red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, adverse neurological outcomes, and feeding intolerance including necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm and/or low birth weight infants. Primary objective for studies that primarily investigate the effectiveness and safety of ESAs administered early in reducing red blood cell transfusions: To assess the effectiveness and safety of ESAs initiated early in reducing red blood cell transfusions in preterm infants. Secondary objectives: Review authors performed subgroup analyses of low (≤ 500 IU/kg/week) and high (> 500 IU/kg/week) doses of EPO and the amount of iron supplementation provided: none, low (≤ 5 mg/kg/d), and high (> 5 mg/kg/d). Primary objective for studies that primarily investigate the neuro protective effectiveness of ESAs: To assess the effectiveness and safety of ESAs initiated early in reducing adverse neurological outcomes in preterm infants. Primary objective for studies that primarily investigate the effectiveness of EPO or Darbe administered early in reducing feeding intolerance: To assess the effectiveness and safety of ESAs administered early in reducing feeding intolerance (and NEC) in preterm infants. Other secondary objectives: To compare the effectiveness of ESAs in reducing the incidence of adverse events and improving long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. SEARCH METHODS We used the standard search strategy of Cochrane Neonatal to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2017, Issue 2), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to 10 March 2017), Embase (1980 to 10 March 2017), and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; 1982 to 10 March 2017). We searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, and reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials of early initiation of EAS treatment versus placebo or no intervention in preterm or low birth weight infants. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used the methods described in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the GRADE approach to assess the quality of evidence. MAIN RESULTS This updated review includes 34 studies enrolling 3643 infants. All analyses compared ESAs versus a control consisting of placebo or no treatment. Early ESAs reduced the risk of 'use of one or more [red blood cell] RBC transfusions' (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74 to 0.85; typical risk difference (RD) -0.14, 95% CI -0.18 to -0.10; I2 = 69% for RR and 62% for RD (moderate heterogeneity); number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 7, 95% CI 6 to 10; 19 studies, 1750 infants). The quality of the evidence was low. Necrotising enterocolitis was significantly reduced in the ESA group compared with the placebo group (typical RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.91; typical RD -0.03, 95% CI -0.05 to -0.01; I2 = 0% for RR and 22% for RD (low heterogeneity); NNTB 33, 95% CI 20 to 100; 15 studies, 2639 infants). The quality of the evidence was moderate. Data show a reduction in 'Any neurodevelopmental impairment at 18 to 22 months' corrected age in the ESA group (typical RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.80; typical RD -0.08, 95% CI -0.12 to -0.04; NNTB 13, 95% CI 8 to 25. I2 = 76% for RR (high heterogeneity) and 66% for RD (moderate); 4 studies, 1130 infants). The quality of the evidence was low. Results reveal increased scores on the Bayley-II Mental Development Index (MDI) at 18 to 24 months in the ESA group (weighted mean difference (WMD) 8.22, 95% CI 6.52 to 9.92; I2 = 97% (high heterogeneity); 3 studies, 981 children). The quality of the evidence was low. The total volume of RBCs transfused per infant was reduced by 7 mL/kg. The number of RBC transfusions per infant was minimally reduced, but the number of donors to whom infants who were transfused were exposed was not significantly reduced. Data show no significant difference in risk of stage ≥ 3 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) with early EPO (typical RR 1.24, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.90; typical RD 0.01, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.04; I2 = 0% (no heterogeneity) for RR; I2 = 34% (low heterogeneity) for RD; 8 studies, 1283 infants). Mortality was not affected, but results show significant reductions in the incidence of intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) and periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Early administration of ESAs reduces the use of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, the volume of RBCs transfused, and donor exposure after study entry. Small reductions are likely to be of limited clinical importance. Donor exposure probably is not avoided, given that all but one study included infants who had received RBC transfusions before trial entry. This update found no significant difference in the rate of ROP (stage ≥ 3) for studies that initiated EPO treatment at less than eight days of age, which has been a topic of concern in earlier versions of this review. Early EPO treatment significantly decreased rates of IVH, PVL, and NEC. Neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18 to 22 months and later varied in published studies. Ongoing research should evaluate current clinical practices that will limit donor exposure. Promising but conflicting results related to the neuro protective effect of early EPO require further study. Very different results from the two largest published trials and high heterogeneity in the analyses indicate that we should wait for the results of two ongoing large trials before drawing firm conclusions. Administration of EPO is not currently recommended because limited benefits have been identified to date. Use of darbepoetin requires further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arne Ohlsson
- University of TorontoDepartments of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Institute of Health Policy, Management and EvaluationTorontoCanada
| | - Sanjay M Aher
- Neocare HospitalNeonatal Intensive Care UnitMumbai NakaNashikMaharashtraIndia422002
| | | |
Collapse
|
25
|
Haslbeck FB, Jakab A, Held U, Bassler D, Bucher HU, Hagmann C. Creative music therapy to promote brain function and brain structure in preterm infants: A randomized controlled pilot study. Neuroimage Clin 2020; 25:102171. [PMID: 31972397 PMCID: PMC6974781 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2020.102171] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2019] [Revised: 12/18/2019] [Accepted: 01/10/2020] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Cognitive and neurobehavioral problems are among the most severe adverse outcomes in very preterm infants. Such neurodevelopmental impairments may be mitigated through nonpharmacological interventions such as creative music therapy (CMT), an interactive, resource- and needs-oriented approach that provides individual social contact and musical stimulation. The aim was to test the feasibility of a study investigating the role of CMT and to measure the short- and medium-term effects of CMT on structural and functional brain connectivity with MRI. In this randomized, controlled clinical pilot feasibility trial, 82 infants were randomized to either CMT or standard care. A specially trained music therapist provided CMT via infant-directed humming and singing in lullaby style. To test the short-term effects of CMT on brain structure and function, diffusion tensor imaging data and resting-state functional imaging data were acquired. Clinical feasibility was achieved despite moderate parental refusal mainly in the control group after randomization. 40 infants remained as final cohort for the MRI analysis. Structural brain connectivity appears to be moderately affected by CMT, structural connectomic analysis revealed increased integration in the posterior cingulate cortex only. Lagged resting-state MRI analysis showed lower thalamocortical processing delay, stronger functional networks, and higher functional integration in predominantly left prefrontal, supplementary motor, and inferior temporal brain regions in infants treated with CMT. This trial provides unique evidence that CMT has beneficial effects on functional brain activity and connectivity in networks underlying higher-order cognitive, socio-emotional, and motor functions in preterm infants. Our results indicate the potential of CMT to improve long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes in children born very preterm.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Friederike Barbara Haslbeck
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich and University Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland.
| | - Andras Jakab
- MR Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Held
- Department of Biostatistics Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute UZH, Hirschengraben 84, 8001 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Dirk Bassler
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich and University Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Hans-Ulrich Bucher
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich and University Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091 Zürich, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Hagmann
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, Children's University Hospital of Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland; Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Steinwiesstrasse 75, 8032 Zürich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Altered brain metabolism contributes to executive function deficits in school-aged children born very preterm. Pediatr Res 2020; 88:739-748. [PMID: 32590836 PMCID: PMC7577839 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-020-1024-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 05/26/2020] [Accepted: 05/27/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Executive function deficits in children born very preterm (VPT) have been linked to anatomical abnormalities in white matter and subcortical brain structures. This study aimed to investigate how altered brain metabolism contributes to these deficits in VPT children at school-age. METHODS Fifty-four VPT participants aged 8-13 years and 62 term-born peers were assessed with an executive function test battery. Brain metabolites were obtained in the frontal white matter and the basal ganglia/thalami, using proton magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). N-acetylaspartate (NAA)/creatine (Cr), choline (Cho)/Cr, glutamate + glutamine (Glx)/Cr, and myo-Inositol (mI)/Cr were compared between groups and associations with executive functions were explored using linear regression. RESULTS In the frontal white matter, VPT showed lower Glx/Cr (mean difference: -5.91%, 95% CI [-10.50, -1.32]), higher Cho/Cr (7.39%, 95%-CI [2.68, 12.10]), and higher mI/Cr (5.41%, 95%-CI [0.18, 10.64]) while there were no differences in the basal ganglia/thalami. Lower executive functions were associated with lower frontal Glx/Cr ratios in both groups (β = 0.16, p = 0.05) and higher mI/Cr ratios in the VPT group only (interaction: β = -0.17, p = 0.02). CONCLUSION Long-term brain metabolite alterations in the frontal white matter may be related to executive function deficits in VPT children at school-age. IMPACT Very preterm birth is associated with long-term brain metabolite alterations in the frontal white matter. Such alterations may contribute to deficits in executive function abilities. Injury processes in the brain can persist for years after the initial insult. Our findings provide new insights beyond structural and functional imaging, which help to elucidate the processes involved in abnormal brain development following preterm birth. Ultimately, this may lead to earlier identification of children at risk for developing deficits and more effective interventions.
Collapse
|
27
|
Abstract
Perinatal brain injury is a major cause of neurological disability in both premature and term infants. In this review, we summarize the evidence behind some established neuroprotective practices such as administration of antenatal steroids, intrapartum magnesium for preterm delivery, and therapeutic hypothermia. In addition, we examine emerging practices such as delayed cord clamping, postnatal magnesium administration, recombinant erythropoietin, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents and finally inform the reader about novel interventions, some of which are currently in trials, such as xenon, melatonin, topiramate, allopurinol, creatine, and autologous cord cell therapy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Samata Singhi
- Department of Neurology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA.,Department of Pediatric Neurology, Johns Hopkins Medicine, Baltimore, MD, 21287, USA
| | - Michael Johnston
- Department of Neurology, Kennedy Krieger Institute, Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, USA
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Volpe JJ. Dysmaturation of Premature Brain: Importance, Cellular Mechanisms, and Potential Interventions. Pediatr Neurol 2019; 95:42-66. [PMID: 30975474 DOI: 10.1016/j.pediatrneurol.2019.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 167] [Impact Index Per Article: 33.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2019] [Revised: 02/12/2019] [Accepted: 02/19/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Prematurity, especially preterm birth (less than 32 weeks' gestation), is common and associated with high rates of both survival and neurodevelopmental disability, especially apparent in cognitive spheres. The neuropathological substrate of this disability is now recognized to be related to a variety of dysmaturational disturbances of the brain. These disturbances follow initial brain injury, particularly cerebral white matter injury, and involve many of the extraordinary array of developmental events active in cerebral white and gray matter structures during the premature period. This review delineates these developmental events and the dysmaturational disturbances that occur in premature infants. The cellular mechanisms involved in the genesis of the dysmaturation are emphasized, with particular focus on the preoligodendrocyte. A central role for the diffusely distributed activated microglia and reactive astrocytes in the dysmaturation is now apparent. As these dysmaturational cellular mechanisms appear to occur over a relatively long time window, interventions to prevent or ameliorate the dysmaturation, that is, neurorestorative interventions, seem possible. Such interventions include pharmacologic agents, especially erythropoietin, and particular attention has also been paid to such nutritional factors as quality and source of milk, breastfeeding, polyunsaturated fatty acids, iron, and zinc. Recent studies also suggest a potent role for interventions directed at various experiential factors in the neonatal period and infancy, i.e., provision of optimal auditory and visual exposures, minimization of pain and stress, and a variety of other means of environmental behavioral enrichment, in enhancing brain development.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joseph J Volpe
- Department of Neurology, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts; Department of Pediatric Newborn Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Boston, Massachusetts.
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Jakab A, Ruegger C, Bucher HU, Makki M, Huppi PS, Tuura R, Hagmann C. Network based statistics reveals trophic and neuroprotective effect of early high dose erythropoetin on brain connectivity in very preterm infants. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2019; 22:101806. [PMID: 30991614 PMCID: PMC6451173 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2019.101806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 03/18/2019] [Accepted: 03/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/17/2023]
Abstract
Periventricular white matter injury is common in very preterm infants and it is associated with long term neurodevelopmental impairments. While evidence supports the protective effects of erythropoetin (EPO) in preventing injury, we currently lack the complete understanding of how EPO affects the emergence and maturation of anatomical brain connectivity and function. In this case-control study, connectomic analysis based on diffusion MRI tractography was applied to evaluate the effect of early high-dose EPO in preterm infants. A whole brain, network-level analysis revealed a sub-network of anatomical brain connections in which connectivity strengths were significantly stronger in the EPO group. This distributed network comprised connections predominantly in the frontal and temporal lobe bilaterally, and the effect of EPO was focused on peripheral and feeder connections of the core structural connectivity network. EPO resulted in a globally increased clustering coefficient, higher global and average local efficiency, while higher strength and increased clustering was found for regions in the frontal lobe and cingulate gyrus. The connectivity network most affected by the EPO treatment showed a steeper increase graph theoretical measures with age compared to the placebo group. Our results demonstrate a weak but widespread effect of EPO on the structural connectivity network and a possible trophic effect of EPO reflected by increasing network segregation, predominantly in local connections. Erythropoietin (EPO) is a potential neuroprotective agent in very preterm infants. EPO leads to increased structural brain connectivity in fronto-temporal regions. Clustering coefficient, local and global efficiency increases after EPO treatment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- A Jakab
- Center for MR Research, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
| | - C Ruegger
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - H U Bucher
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Malek Makki
- Center for MR Research, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - P S Huppi
- Division of Development and Growth, Department of Pediatrics, University Hospital of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - R Tuura
- Center for MR Research, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - C Hagmann
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland; Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | | |
Collapse
|
30
|
Wu Y, Song J, Wang Y, Wang X, Culmsee C, Zhu C. The Potential Role of Ferroptosis in Neonatal Brain Injury. Front Neurosci 2019; 13:115. [PMID: 30837832 PMCID: PMC6382670 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2019.00115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 67] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2018] [Accepted: 01/30/2019] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Ferroptosis is an iron-dependent form of cell death that is characterized by early lipid peroxidation and different from other forms of regulated cell death in terms of its genetic components, specific morphological features, and biochemical mechanisms. Different initiation pathways of ferroptosis have been reported, including inhibition of system Xc -, inactivation of glutathione-dependent peroxidase 4, and reduced glutathione levels, all of which ultimately promote the production of reactive oxygen species, particularly through enhanced lipid peroxidation. Although ferroptosis was first described in cancer cells, emerging evidence now links mechanisms of ferroptosis to many different diseases, including cerebral ischemia and brain hemorrhage. For example, neonatal brain injury is an important cause of developmental impairment and of permanent neurological deficits, and several types of cell death, including iron-dependent pathways, have been detected in the process of neonatal brain damage. Iron chelators and erythropoietin have both shown neuroprotective effects against neonatal brain injury. Here, we have summarized the potential relation between ferroptosis and neonatal brain injury, and according therapeutic intervention strategies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Wu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Juan Song
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Yafeng Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China
| | - Xiaoyang Wang
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | - Carsten Culmsee
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Institute of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany.,Center for Mind, Brain and Behavior, University of Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Changlian Zhu
- Henan Key Laboratory of Child Brain Injury, Third Affiliated Hospital of Zhengzhou University, Zhengzhou, China.,Center for Brain Repair and Rehabilitation, Institute of Neuroscience and Physiology, Sahlgrenska Academy, University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Enguix V, Ding Y, Lodygensky GA. Recent advances in preclinical and clinical multimodal MR in the newborn brain. JOURNAL OF MAGNETIC RESONANCE (SAN DIEGO, CALIF. : 1997) 2018; 292:149-154. [PMID: 29731237 DOI: 10.1016/j.jmr.2018.04.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2018] [Revised: 04/24/2018] [Accepted: 04/28/2018] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
Aside from injury identification, MRI of the newborn brain has given us insight into cortical and white matter development, identified windows of vulnerabilities, enabled the introduction of therapeutic hypothermia which has become the standard of care in neonatal asphyxia, and is fostering leapfrogging discoveries in the field of neuro-genetics. This article reviews the main advances in recent years in newborn brain imaging both in preclinical and clinical research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vicente Enguix
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Montréal, Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Yang Ding
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Montréal, Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada
| | - Gregory A Lodygensky
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Montréal, Research Center, CHU Sainte-Justine, Montréal, Québec, Canada; Department of Pharmacology and Physiology, Université de Montréal, Montréal, Québec, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Robinson S, Winer JL, Chan LAS, Oppong AY, Yellowhair TR, Maxwell JR, Andrews N, Yang Y, Sillerud LO, Meehan WP, Mannix R, Brigman JL, Jantzie LL. Extended Erythropoietin Treatment Prevents Chronic Executive Functional and Microstructural Deficits Following Early Severe Traumatic Brain Injury in Rats. Front Neurol 2018; 9:451. [PMID: 29971038 PMCID: PMC6018393 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00451] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2018] [Accepted: 05/29/2018] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Survivors of infant traumatic brain injury (TBI) are prone to chronic neurological deficits that impose lifelong individual and societal burdens. Translation of novel interventions to clinical trials is hampered in part by the lack of truly representative preclinical tests of cognition and corresponding biomarkers of functional outcomes. To address this gap, the ability of a high-dose, extended, post-injury regimen of erythropoietin (EPO, 3000U/kg/dose × 6d) to prevent chronic cognitive and imaging deficits was tested in a postnatal day 12 (P12) controlled-cortical impact (CCI) model in rats, using touchscreen operant chambers and regional analysis of diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). Results indicate that EPO prevents functional injury and MRI injury after infant TBI. Specifically, subacute DTI at P30 revealed widespread microstructural damage that is prevented by EPO. Assessment of visual discrimination on a touchscreen operant chamber platform demonstrated that all groups can perform visual discrimination. However, CCI rats treated with vehicle failed to pass reversal learning, and perseverated, in contrast to sham and CCI-EPO rats. Chronic DTI at P90 showed EPO treatment prevented contralateral white matter and ipsilateral lateral prefrontal cortex damage. This DTI improvement correlated with cognitive performance. Taken together, extended EPO treatment restores executive function and prevents microstructural brain abnormalities in adult rats with cognitive deficits in a translational preclinical model of infant TBI. Sophisticated testing with touchscreen operant chambers and regional DTI analyses may expedite translation and effective yield of interventions from preclinical studies to clinical trials. Collectively, these data support the use of EPO in clinical trials for human infants with TBI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shenandoah Robinson
- Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,Neurology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States.,F.M. Kirby Center for Neurobiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jesse L Winer
- Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Lindsay A S Chan
- Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Akosua Y Oppong
- Neurosurgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | | | - Jessie R Maxwell
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Nicholas Andrews
- F.M. Kirby Center for Neurobiology, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Yirong Yang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Laurel O Sillerud
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - William P Meehan
- Sports Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Rebekah Mannix
- Emergency Medicine, Boston Children's Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, United States
| | - Jonathan L Brigman
- Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Lauren L Jantzie
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States.,Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Diffusion tensor imaging predicts motor outcome in children with acquired brain injury. Brain Imaging Behav 2018; 11:1373-1384. [PMID: 27734299 DOI: 10.1007/s11682-016-9637-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Rehabilitation in children with acquired brain injury is a challenging endeavour. There is a large variability in motor recovery between patients, and a need to optimize therapies by exploiting cerebral plasticity and recovery mechanisms. This retrospective study aims to identify tract-based markers that could serve as predictors of functional outcome following rehabilitation. METHODS Twenty-nine children with traumatic brain injury (n = 14) or stroke (n = 15) underwent a 3 T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) measurement, including Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) between admission to the Hospital and onset of rehabilitation therapy at the Rehabilitation Centre. The Functional Independence Measure for Children (WeeFIM) was routinely applied at admission and discharge from the Rehabilitation Centre. Distinguishing between children with good versus poor functional independence was performed using ROC-analysis. A non-parametric partial correlation analysis between the DTI and WeeFIM motor scores was performed with age, time in rehabilitation, and time of MRI scan after injury as covariates. RESULTS Mean fractional anisotropy (FA) from the DTI in the ipsilesional corticospinal-tract provided the highest predictive accuracy (sensitivity = 95 %, specificity = 78 %, Youden Index = 0.73, Area under the curve = 0.9), in comparison to the lesion volume or other clinical variables. Mean FA of the ipsilesional corticospinal-tract correlated positively with the WeeFIM discharge motor scores (ρ = 0.547, p = 0.004). Prediction was poorer for the lesion volume or Glasgow Coma Scale. CONCLUSION The results suggest that DTI data could improve the prediction of functional outcome after rehabilitation in children and adolescents with stroke or traumatic brain injury. Specifically, mean FA shows the highest predictive accuracy in comparison to lesion volume or clinical scales.
Collapse
|
34
|
Ananthan A, Balasubramanian H, Rao S, Patole S. Clinical Outcomes Related to the Gastrointestinal Trophic Effects of Erythropoietin in Preterm Neonates: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Adv Nutr 2018; 9:238-246. [PMID: 29767696 PMCID: PMC5952937 DOI: 10.1093/advances/nmy005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2017] [Accepted: 01/11/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Erythropoietin (EPO) plays an important role in the development and maturation of the gastrointestinal tract. Recombinant EPO (rEPO) has been used to prevent anemia of prematurity. The gastrointestinal trophic effects of EPO may reduce feeding intolerance and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm neonates. The aim of this systematic review of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) was to evaluate the effects of rEPO on clinical outcomes such as feeding intolerance, stage II or higher NEC, any stage NEC, sepsis, retinopathy of prematurity, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm neonates. Twenty-five RCTs (intravenous: 13; subcutaneous: 10; enteral: 2; n = 4025) were eligible for inclusion. Meta-analysis of data from 17 RCTs (rEPO compared with placebo) with the use of a fixed-effects model showed no significant effect of rEPO on stage II or higher NEC (RR: 0.87; 95% CI: 0.64, 1.19; P = 0.39). Meta-analysis of data from 25 RCTs (rEPO compared with placebo) showed that rEPO significantly decreased the risk of any stage NEC [cases/total sample: 120/2058 (5.83%) compared with 146/1967 (7.42%); RR: 0.77; 95% CI: 0.61, 0.97; P = 0.03]. Only one RCT reported on time to full feedings. Meta-analysis of data from 15 RCTs showed a significant reduction in late-onset sepsis after rEPO administration (RR: 0.81; 95% CI: 0.71, 0.94; P = 0.004). Meta-analysis of 13 RCTs showed no significant effect of rEPO on mortality, retinopathy of prematurity, and bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Prophylactic rEPO had no effect on stage II or higher NEC, but it reduced any stage NEC, probably by reducing feeding intolerance, which is often labeled as stage I NEC. Adequately powered RCTs are required to confirm these findings.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Anitha Ananthan
- Department of Neonatology, Seth GS Medical College and King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai, India,Address correspondence to AA (e-mail: )
| | | | - Shripada Rao
- Department of Neonatal Pediatrics, Princess Margaret Hospital for Children, Perth, Western Australia, Australia,Center for Neonatal Research and Education, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia
| | - Sanjay Patole
- Center for Neonatal Research and Education, University of Western Australia, Perth, Australia,Department of Neonatal Pediatrics, King Edward Memorial Hospital for Women, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Wehrle FM, Held U, O'Gorman RT, Disselhoff V, Schnider B, Fauchère JC, Hüppi P, Latal B, Hagmann CF. Long-term neuroprotective effect of erythropoietin on executive functions in very preterm children (EpoKids): protocol of a prospective follow-up study. BMJ Open 2018; 8:e022157. [PMID: 29691250 PMCID: PMC5922511 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2018-022157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Premature infants are particularly vulnerable to brain injuries with associated cognitive and behavioural deficits. The worldwide first randomised interventional multicentre trial investigating the neuroprotective effects of erythropoietin (entitled 'Does erythropoietin improve outcome in very preterm infants?' (NCT00413946)) included 450 very preterm infants in Switzerland. MRI at term equivalent age showed less white matter (WM) injury in the erythropoietin group compared with the placebo group. Despite these promising imaging findings, neurodevelopmental outcome at 2 years showed no beneficial effect of early erythropoietin. One explanation could be that the assessment of more complex cognitive functions such as executive functions (EFs) is only possible at a later age. We hypothesise that due to improved WM development and fewer WM injuries, children born preterm treated with early erythropoietin will have better EF abilities at 7-12 years than those treated with placebo. METHODS AND ANALYSIS 365 children who were included into the primary analysis of the original trial (NCT00413946) will be eligible in this prospective follow-up study at the age of 7-12 years. 185 children born at term will be control children. Primary outcome measures are EF abilities and processing speed, while secondary outcomes are academic performance, IQ, fine motor abilities and global brain connectivity. A comprehensive test battery will be applied to assess EFs. MRI will be performed to assess global brain connectivity. Cognitive scores and MRI measures will be compared between both groups using the Wilcoxon test. Propensity score matching will be used to balance gender, age, socioeconomic status and other potentially unbalanced variables between the children born preterm and the healthy control children. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION The cantonal ethical committee granted ethical approval for this study (KEK 2017-00521). Written consent will be obtained from the parents. Findings from this study will be disseminated via international and national conference presentations and publications in peer-reviewed journals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Flavia Maria Wehrle
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Child Development Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ulrike Held
- Department Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Biostatistics and Prevention Institute, University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Ruth Tuura O'Gorman
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- MR Research Centre, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Vera Disselhoff
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Barbara Schnider
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Jean-Claude Fauchère
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich and University of Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Petra Hüppi
- Division of Child Development and Growth, Department of Paediatrics, Geneva University, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Beatrice Latal
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Child Development Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Franziska Hagmann
- Department of Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
- Children's Research Center, University Children's Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Gussenhoven R, Westerlaken RJJ, Ophelders DRMG, Jobe AH, Kemp MW, Kallapur SG, Zimmermann LJ, Sangild PT, Pankratova S, Gressens P, Kramer BW, Fleiss B, Wolfs TGAM. Chorioamnionitis, neuroinflammation, and injury: timing is key in the preterm ovine fetus. J Neuroinflammation 2018; 15:113. [PMID: 29673373 PMCID: PMC5907370 DOI: 10.1186/s12974-018-1149-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Accepted: 04/04/2018] [Indexed: 01/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Antenatal infection (i.e., chorioamnionitis) is an important risk factor for adverse neurodevelopmental outcomes after preterm birth. Destructive and developmental disturbances of the white matter are hallmarks of preterm brain injury. Understanding the temporal effects of antenatal infection in relation to the onset of neurological injury is crucial for the development of neurotherapeutics for preterm infants. However, these dynamics remain unstudied. Methods Time-mated ewes were intra-amniotically injected with lipopolysaccharide at 5, 12, or 24 h or 2, 4, 8, or 15 days before preterm delivery at 125 days gestational age (term ~ 150 days). Post mortem analyses for peripheral immune activation, neuroinflammation, and white matter/neuronal injury were performed. Moreover, considering the neuroprotective potential of erythropoietin (EPO) for perinatal brain injury, we evaluated (phosphorylated) EPO receptor (pEPOR) expression in the fetal brain following LPS exposure. Results Intra-amniotic exposure to this single bolus of LPS resulted in a biphasic systemic IL-6 and IL-8 response. In the developing brain, intra-amniotic LPS exposure induces a persistent microgliosis (IBA-1 immunoreactivity) but a shorter-lived increase in the pro-inflammatory marker COX-2. Cell death (caspase-3 immunoreactivity) was only observed when LPS exposure was greater than 8 days in the white matter, and there was a reduction in the number of (pre) oligodendrocytes (Olig2- and PDGFRα-positive cells) within the white matter at 15 days post LPS exposure only. pEPOR expression displayed a striking biphasic regulation following LPS exposure which may help explain contradicting results among clinical trials that tested EPO for the prevention of preterm brain injury. Conclusion We provide increased understanding of the spatiotemporal pathophysiological changes in the preterm brain following intra-amniotic inflammation which may aid development of new interventions or implement interventions more effectively to prevent perinatal brain damage.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruth Gussenhoven
- Department of Pediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6202, AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Maastricht University Medical Center, 6229, ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Rob J J Westerlaken
- Department of Pediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6202, AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands
| | - Daan R M G Ophelders
- Department of Pediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6202, AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School of Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University Medical Center, 6229, ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Alan H Jobe
- Division of Neonatology/Pulmonary Biology, The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45208, USA
| | - Matthew W Kemp
- School of Women's and Infants' Health, The University of Western Australia (M550), Crawley, WA, 6009, Australia
| | - Suhas G Kallapur
- Division of Neonatology/Pulmonary Biology, The Perinatal Institute, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, OH, 45208, USA
| | - Luc J Zimmermann
- Department of Pediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6202, AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School of Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University Medical Center, 6229, ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Per T Sangild
- Department of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg DK 1870 C, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Departments of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Stanislava Pankratova
- Department of Comparative Pediatrics and Nutrition, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, Frederiksberg DK 1870 C, Copenhagen, Denmark.,Departments of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Rigshospitalet, Copenhagen, 2100, Denmark
| | - Pierre Gressens
- Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Department of Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, King's Health Partners, St. Thomas Hospital, London, SE1 7EH, UK.,PROTECT, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.,PremUP, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cite, Paris, France
| | - Boris W Kramer
- Department of Pediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6202, AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School for Mental Health and Neuroscience (MHeNs), Maastricht University Medical Center, 6229, ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands.,School of Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University Medical Center, 6229, ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - Bobbi Fleiss
- Department of Perinatal Imaging and Health, Department of Division of Imaging Sciences and Biomedical Engineering, King's College London, King's Health Partners, St. Thomas Hospital, London, SE1 7EH, UK.,PROTECT, INSERM, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cité, Paris, France.,PremUP, Université Paris Diderot, Sorbonne Paris Cite, Paris, France
| | - Tim G A M Wolfs
- Department of Pediatrics, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6202, AZ, Maastricht, The Netherlands. .,School of Oncology and Developmental Biology (GROW), Maastricht University Medical Center, 6229, ER, Maastricht, the Netherlands. .,Department of BioMedical Engineering, Maastricht University Medical Center, 6229, ER, Maastricht, The Netherlands.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Jantzie LL, Oppong AY, Conteh FS, Yellowhair TR, Kim J, Fink G, Wolin AR, Northington FJ, Robinson S. Repetitive Neonatal Erythropoietin and Melatonin Combinatorial Treatment Provides Sustained Repair of Functional Deficits in a Rat Model of Cerebral Palsy. Front Neurol 2018; 9:233. [PMID: 29706928 PMCID: PMC5908903 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2018.00233] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/09/2017] [Accepted: 03/26/2018] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Cerebral palsy (CP) is the leading cause of motor impairment for children worldwide and results from perinatal brain injury (PBI). To test novel therapeutics to mitigate deficits from PBI, we developed a rat model of extreme preterm birth (<28 weeks of gestation) that mimics dual intrauterine injury from placental underperfusion and chorioamnionitis. We hypothesized that a sustained postnatal treatment regimen that combines the endogenous neuroreparative agents erythropoietin (EPO) and melatonin (MLT) would mitigate molecular, sensorimotor, and cognitive abnormalities in adults rats following prenatal injury. On embryonic day 18 (E18), a laparotomy was performed in pregnant Sprague–Dawley rats. Uterine artery occlusion was performed for 60 min to induce placental insufficiency via transient systemic hypoxia-ischemia, followed by intra-amniotic injections of lipopolysaccharide, and laparotomy closure. On postnatal day 1 (P1), approximately equivalent to 30 weeks of gestation, injured rats were randomized to an extended EPO + MLT treatment regimen, or vehicle (sterile saline) from P1 to P10. Behavioral assays were performed along an extended developmental time course (n = 6–29). Open field testing shows injured rats exhibit hypermobility and disinhibition and that combined neonatal EPO + MLT treatment repairs disinhibition in injured rats, while EPO alone does not. Furthermore, EPO + MLT normalizes hindlimb deficits, including reduced paw area and paw pressure at peak stance, and elevated percent shared stance after prenatal injury. Injured rats had fewer social interactions than shams, and EPO + MLT normalized social drive. Touchscreen operant chamber testing of visual discrimination and reversal shows that EPO + MLT at least partially normalizes theses complex cognitive tasks. Together, these data indicate EPO + MLT can potentially repair multiple sensorimotor, cognitive, and behavioral realms following PBI, using highly translatable and sophisticated developmental testing platforms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lauren L Jantzie
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States.,Department of Neurosciences, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Akosua Y Oppong
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Fatu S Conteh
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Tracylyn R Yellowhair
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, NM, United States
| | - Joshua Kim
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Gabrielle Fink
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Adam R Wolin
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Frances J Northington
- Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Shenandoah Robinson
- Pediatric Neurosurgery, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Neonatal erythropoietin mitigates impaired gait, social interaction and diffusion tensor imaging abnormalities in a rat model of prenatal brain injury. Exp Neurol 2017; 302:1-13. [PMID: 29288070 DOI: 10.1016/j.expneurol.2017.12.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Revised: 11/13/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Children who are born preterm are at risk for encephalopathy of prematurity, a leading cause of cerebral palsy, cognitive delay and behavioral disorders. Current interventions are limited and none have been shown to reverse cognitive and behavioral impairments, a primary determinant of poor quality of life for these children. Moreover, the mechanisms of perinatal brain injury that result in functional deficits and imaging abnormalities in the mature brain are poorly defined, limiting the potential to target interventions to those who may benefit most. To determine whether impairments are reversible after a prenatal insult, we investigated a spectrum of functional deficits and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) abnormalities in young adult animals. We hypothesized that prenatal transient systemic hypoxia-ischemia (TSHI) would induce multiple functional deficits concomitant with reduced microstructural white and gray matter integrity, and tested whether these abnormalities could be ameliorated using postnatal erythropoietin (EPO), an emerging neurorestorative intervention. On embryonic day 18 uterine arteries were transiently occluded for 60min via laparotomy. Shams underwent anesthesia and laparotomy for 60min. Pups were born and TSHI pups were randomized to receive EPO or vehicle via intraperitoneal injection on postnatal days 1 to 5. Gait, social interaction, olfaction and open field testing was performed from postnatal day 25-35 before brains underwent ex vivo DTI to measure fractional anisotropy, axial diffusivity and radial diffusivity. Prenatal TSHI injury causes hyperactivity, impaired gait and poor social interaction in young adult rats that mimic the spectrum of deficits observed in children born preterm. Collectively, these data show for the first time in a model of encephalopathy of prematurity that postnatal EPO treatment mitigates impairments in social interaction, in addition to gait deficits. EPO also normalizes TSHI-induced microstructural abnormalities in fractional anisotropy and radial diffusivity in multiple regions, consistent with improved structural integrity and recovery of myelination. Taken together, these results show behavioral and memory deficits from perinatal brain injury are reversible. Furthermore, resolution of DTI abnormalities may predict responsiveness to emerging interventions, and serve as a biomarker of CNS injury and recovery.
Collapse
|
39
|
Prenatal methadone exposure is associated with altered neonatal brain development. NEUROIMAGE-CLINICAL 2017; 18:9-14. [PMID: 29326869 PMCID: PMC5760461 DOI: 10.1016/j.nicl.2017.12.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 12/22/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
Methadone is used for medication-assisted treatment of heroin addiction during pregnancy. The neurodevelopmental outcome of children with prenatal methadone exposure can be sub-optimal. We tested the hypothesis that brain development is altered among newborn infants whose mothers were prescribed methadone. 20 methadone-exposed neonates born after 37 weeks' postmenstrual age (PMA) and 20 non-exposed controls underwent diffusion MRI at mean PMA of 39+ 2 and 41+ 1 weeks, respectively. An age-optimized Tract-based Spatial Statistics (TBSS) pipeline was used to perform voxel-wise statistical comparison of fractional anisotropy (FA) data between exposed and non-exposed neonates. Methadone-exposed neonates had decreased FA within the centrum semiovale, inferior longitudinal fasciculi (ILF) and the internal and external capsules after adjustment for GA at MRI (p < 0.05, TFCE corrected). Median FA across the white matter skeleton was 12% lower among methadone-exposed infants. Mean head circumference (HC) z-scores were lower in the methadone-exposed group (− 0.52 (0.99) vs 1.15 (0.84), p < 0.001); after adjustment for HC z-scores, differences in FA remained in the anterior and posterior limbs of the internal capsule and the ILF. Polydrug use among cases was common. Prenatal methadone exposure is associated with microstructural alteration in major white matter tracts, which is present at birth and is independent of head growth. Although the findings cannot be attributed to methadone per se, the data indicate that further research to determine optimal management of opioid use disorder during pregnancy is required. Future studies should evaluate childhood outcomes including infant brain development and long-term neurocognitive function. Prenatal methadone exposure is associated with atypical white matter development. Reduced FA in the white matter skeleton is apparent soon after birth. Polydrug use among cases limits causal inference. Infant brain development should be evaluated in studies of opioid use in pregnancy.
Collapse
|
40
|
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm infants have low plasma levels of erythropoietin (EPO), providing a rationale for the use of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) to prevent or treat anaemia and to provide neuro protection and protection against necrotising enterocolitis (NEC). Darbepoetin (Darbe) and EPO are currently available ESAs. OBJECTIVES To assess the effectiveness and safety of ESAs (erythropoietin (EPO) and/or Darbe) initiated early (before eight days after birth) compared with placebo or no intervention in reducing red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, adverse neurological outcomes, and feeding intolerance including necrotising enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm and/or low birth weight infants. Primary objective for studies that primarily investigate the effectiveness and safety of ESAs administered early in reducing red blood cell transfusions:To assess the effectiveness and safety of ESAs initiated early in reducing red blood cell transfusions in preterm infants. Secondary objectives:Review authors performed subgroup analyses of low (≤ 500 IU/kg/week) and high (> 500 IU/kg/week) doses of EPO and the amount of iron supplementation provided: none, low (≤ 5 mg/kg/d), and high (> 5 mg/kg/d). Primary objective for studies that primarily investigate the neuro protective effectiveness of ESAs:To assess the effectiveness and safety of ESAs initiated early in reducing adverse neurological outcomes in preterm infants. Primary objective for studies that primarily investigate the effectiveness of EPO or Darbe administered early in reducing feeding intolerance:To assess the effectiveness and safety of ESAs administered early in reducing feeding intolerance (and NEC) in preterm infants. Other secondary objectives:To compare the effectiveness of ESAs in reducing the incidence of adverse events and improving long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. SEARCH METHODS We used the standard search strategy of Cochrane Neonatal to search the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL; 2017, Issue 2), MEDLINE via PubMed (1966 to 10 March 2017), Embase (1980 to 10 March 2017), and the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature (CINAHL; 1982 to 10 March 2017). We searched clinical trials databases, conference proceedings, and reference lists of retrieved articles for randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials. SELECTION CRITERIA Randomised and quasi-randomised controlled trials of early initiation of EAS treatment versus placebo or no intervention in preterm or low birth weight infants. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS We used the methods described in the Cochrane Handbook for Systematic Reviews of Interventions and the GRADE approach to assess the quality of evidence. MAIN RESULTS This updated review includes 34 studies enrolling 3643 infants. All analyses compared ESAs versus a control consisting of placebo or no treatment.Early ESAs reduced the risk of 'use of one or more [red blood cell] RBC transfusions' (typical risk ratio (RR) 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.74 to 0.85; typical risk difference (RD) -0.14, 95% CI -0.18 to -0.10; I2 = 69% for RR and 62% for RD (moderate heterogeneity); number needed to treat for an additional beneficial outcome (NNTB) 7, 95% CI 6 to 10; 19 studies, 1750 infants). The quality of the evidence was low.Necrotising enterocolitis was significantly reduced in the ESA group compared with the placebo group (typical RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.52 to 0.91; typical RD -0.03, 95% CI -0.05 to -0.01; I2 = 0% for RR and 22% for RD (low heterogeneity); NNTB 33, 95% CI 20 to 100; 15 studies, 2639 infants). The quality of the evidence was moderate.Data show a reduction in 'Any neurodevelopmental impairment at 18 to 22 months' corrected age in the ESA group (typical RR 0.62, 95% CI 0.48 to 0.80; typical RD -0.08, 95% CI -0.12 to -0.04; NNTB 13, 95% CI 8 to 25. I2 = 76% for RR (high heterogeneity) and 66% for RD (moderate); 4 studies, 1130 infants). The quality of the evidence was low.Results reveal increased scores on the Bayley-II Mental Development Index (MDI) at 18 to 24 months in the ESA group (weighted mean difference (WMD) 8.22, 95% CI 6.52 to 9.92; I2 = 97% (high heterogeneity); 3 studies, 981 children). The quality of the evidence was low.The total volume of RBCs transfused per infant was reduced by 7 mL/kg. The number of RBC transfusions per infant was minimally reduced, but the number of donors to whom infants who were transfused were exposed was not significantly reduced. Data show no significant difference in risk of stage ≥ 3 retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) with early EPO (typical RR 1.24, 95% CI 0.81 to 1.90; typical RD 0.01, 95% CI -0.02 to 0.04; I2 = 0% (no heterogeneity) for RR; I2 = 34% (low heterogeneity) for RD; 8 studies, 1283 infants). Mortality was not affected, but results show significant reductions in the incidence of intraventricular haemorrhage (IVH) and periventricular leukomalacia (PVL). AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS Early administration of ESAs reduces the use of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions, the volume of RBCs transfused, and donor exposure after study entry. Small reductions are likely to be of limited clinical importance. Donor exposure probably is not avoided, given that all but one study included infants who had received RBC transfusions before trial entry. This update found no significant difference in the rate of ROP (stage ≥ 3) for studies that initiated EPO treatment at less than eight days of age, which has been a topic of concern in earlier versions of this review. Early EPO treatment significantly decreased rates of IVH, PVL, and NEC. Neurodevelopmental outcomes at 18 to 22 months and later varied in published studies. Ongoing research should evaluate current clinical practices that will limit donor exposure. Promising but conflicting results related to the neuro protective effect of early EPO require further study. Very different results from the two largest published trials and high heterogeneity in the analyses indicate that we should wait for the results of two ongoing large trials before drawing firm conclusions. Administration of EPO is not currently recommended because limited benefits have been identified to date. Use of darepoetin requires further study.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Arne Ohlsson
- University of TorontoDepartments of Paediatrics, Obstetrics and Gynaecology and Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation600 University AvenueTorontoCanadaM5G 1X5
| | - Sanjay M Aher
- Neocare HospitalNeonatal Intensive Care UnitMumbai NakaNashikIndia422002
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Maiese K. Erythropoietin and mTOR: A "One-Two Punch" for Aging-Related Disorders Accompanied by Enhanced Life Expectancy. Curr Neurovasc Res 2017; 13:329-340. [PMID: 27488211 DOI: 10.2174/1567202613666160729164900] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/10/2016] [Revised: 07/12/2016] [Accepted: 07/14/2016] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Life expectancy continues to increase throughout the world, but is accompanied by a rise in the incidence of non-communicable diseases. As a result, the benefits of an increased lifespan can be limited by aging-related disorders that necessitate new directives for the development of effective and safe treatment modalities. With this objective, the mechanistic target of rapamycin (mTOR), a 289-kDa serine/threonine protein, and its related pathways of mTOR Complex 1 (mTORC1), mTOR Complex 2 (mTORC2), proline rich Akt substrate 40 kDa (PRAS40), AMP activated protein kinase (AMPK), Wnt signaling, and silent mating type information regulation 2 homolog 1 (Saccharomyces cerevisiae) (SIRT1), have generated significant excitement for furthering novel therapies applicable to multiple systems of the body. Yet, the biological and clinical outcome of these pathways can be complex especially with oversight of cell death mechanisms that involve apoptosis and autophagy. Growth factors, and in particular erythropoietin (EPO), are one avenue under consideration to implement control over cell death pathways since EPO can offer potential treatment for multiple disease entities and is intimately dependent upon mTOR signaling. In experimental and clinical studies, EPO appears to have significant efficacy in treating several disorders including those involving the developing brain. However, in mature populations that are affected by aging-related disorders, the direction for the use of EPO to treat clinical disease is less clear that may be dependent upon a number of factors including the understanding of mTOR signaling. Continued focus upon the regulatory elements that control EPO and mTOR signaling could generate critical insights for targeting a broad range of clinical maladies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kenneth Maiese
- Cellular and Molecular Signaling, Newark, New Jersey 07101, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Phillips AJ, Yeo RA, Caprihan A, Cannon DC, Patel S, Winter S, Steffen M, Campbell R, Wiedmeier S, Baker S, Gonzales S, Lowe J, Ohls RK. Neuroimaging in former preterm children who received erythropoiesis stimulating agents. Pediatr Res 2017; 82:685-690. [PMID: 28553989 PMCID: PMC5599329 DOI: 10.1038/pr.2017.130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2017] [Accepted: 05/10/2017] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
BackgroundIn premature children, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) may improve developmental outcome. It is not clear which of the several potential mechanisms are responsible for this improvement. High-resolution MRI and diffusion tensor imaging characterize brain structure and white matter organization, offering possible insight into the long-term effect of ESAs on brain development.MethodsMRI scans were performed at 3.5-4 years of age on former preterm infants treated with ESAs or placebo, and on healthy term controls. Mean cortical thickness, surface area, and fractional anisotropy (FA) were compared across study groups, and were correlated with general IQ measures.ResultsUnivariate analysis found no significant effect of ESAs on cortical thickness (P=0.366), surface area (P=0.940), or FA (P=0.150); however, there was a greater increase in FA among ESA-treated girls. Group analysis found significant correlations between FA and Full-Scale IQ (P=0.044) and Verbal IQ (P=0.036), although there was no significant relationship between Full-Scale IQ and FA among just the preterm children.ConclusionESA treatment may have a preferential effect on white matter development in girls, although factors other than just whole-brain FA are involved in mediating cognitive outcome.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Authors: John Phillips
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico,Mind Research Network, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Ronald A. Yeo
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | | | - Daniel C Cannon
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Shrena Patel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Sarah Winter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Michael Steffen
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | - Richard Campbell
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Susan Wiedmeier
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake City, Utah
| | | | | | - Jean Lowe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| | - Robin K. Ohls
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Haslbeck FB, Bucher HU, Bassler D, Hagmann C. Creative music therapy to promote brain structure, function, and neurobehavioral outcomes in preterm infants: a randomized controlled pilot trial protocol. Pilot Feasibility Stud 2017; 3:36. [PMID: 28975039 PMCID: PMC5613472 DOI: 10.1186/s40814-017-0180-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2017] [Accepted: 08/31/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Preterm birth is associated with increased risk of neurological impairment and deficits in cognition, motor function, and behavioral problems. Limited studies indicate that multi-sensory experiences support brain development in preterm infants. Music appears to promote neurobiological processes and neuronal learning in the human brain. Creative music therapy (CMT) is an individualized, interactive therapeutic approach based on the theory and methods of Nordoff and Robbins. CMT may promote brain development in preterm infants via concurrent interaction and meaningful auditory stimulation. We hypothesize that preterm infants who receive creative music therapy during neonatal intensive care admission will have developmental benefits short- and long-term brain function. METHODS/DESIGN A prospective, randomized controlled single-center pilot trial involving 60 clinically stable preterm infants under 32 weeks of gestational age is conducted in preparation for a multi-center trial. Thirty infants each are randomized to either standard neonatal intensive care or standard care with CMT. Music therapy intervention is approximately 20 min in duration three times per week. A trained music therapist sings for the infants in lullaby style, individually entrained and adjusted to the infant's rhythm and affect. Primary objectives of this study are feasibility of protocol implementation and investigating the potential mechanism of efficacy for this new intervention. To examine the effect of this new intervention, non-invasive, quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) methods at corrected age and standardized neurodevelopmental assessments using the Bayley Scales of Infant and Toddler Development third edition at a corrected age of 24 months and Kaufman Assessment Battery for Children at 5 years will be performed. All assessments will be performed and analyzed by blinded experts. DISCUSSION To our knowledge, this is the first randomized controlled clinical trial to systematically examine possible effects of creative music therapy on short- and long-term brain development in preterm infants. This project lies at the interface of music therapy, neuroscience, and medical imaging. New insights into the potential role and impact of music on brain function and development may be elucidated. If such a low-cost, low-risk intervention is demonstrated in a future multi-center trial to be effective in supporting brain development in preterm neonates, findings could have broad clinical implications for this vulnerable patient population. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT02434224.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Hans-Ulrich Bucher
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Dirk Bassler
- Department of Neonatology, University Hospital Zurich, Frauenklinikstrasse 10, 8091 Zurich, Switzerland
| | - Cornelia Hagmann
- Department of Pediatric Intensive Care and Neonatology, University Children’s Hospital, 8032 Zurich, Switzerland
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Back SA. White matter injury in the preterm infant: pathology and mechanisms. Acta Neuropathol 2017; 134:331-349. [PMID: 28534077 PMCID: PMC5973818 DOI: 10.1007/s00401-017-1718-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 266] [Impact Index Per Article: 38.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2017] [Revised: 04/27/2017] [Accepted: 04/29/2017] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The human preterm brain is particularly susceptible to cerebral white matter injury (WMI) that disrupts the normal progression of developmental myelination. Advances in the care of preterm infants have resulted in a sustained reduction in the severity of WMI that has shifted from more severe focal necrotic lesions to milder diffuse WMI. Nevertheless, WMI remains a global health problem and the most common cause of chronic neurological morbidity from cerebral palsy and diverse neurobehavioral disabilities. Diffuse WMI involves maturation-dependent vulnerability of the oligodendrocyte (OL) lineage with selective degeneration of late oligodendrocyte progenitors (preOLs) triggered by oxidative stress and other insults. The magnitude and distribution of diffuse WMI are related to both the timing of appearance and regional distribution of susceptible preOLs. Diffuse WMI disrupts the normal progression of OL lineage maturation and myelination through aberrant mechanisms of regeneration and repair. PreOL degeneration is accompanied by early robust proliferation of OL progenitors that regenerate and augment the preOL pool available to generate myelinating OLs. However, newly generated preOLs fail to differentiate and initiate myelination along their normal developmental trajectory despite the presence of numerous intact-appearing axons. Disrupted preOL maturation is accompanied by diffuse gliosis and disturbances in the composition of the extracellular matrix and is mediated in part by inhibitory factors derived from reactive astrocytes. Signaling pathways implicated in disrupted myelination include those mediated by Notch, WNT-beta catenin, and hyaluronan. Hence, there exists a potentially broad but still poorly defined developmental window for interventions to promote white matter repair and myelination and potentially reverses the widespread disturbances in cerebral gray matter growth that accompanies WMI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Stephen A Back
- Division of Pediatric Neuroscience, Departments of Pediatrics and Neurology, Oregon Health and Science University, 3181 S.W. Sam Jackson Park Rd, Portland, OR, 97239-3098, USA.
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
McDougall ARA, Hale N, Rees S, Harding R, De Matteo R, Hooper SB, Tolcos M. Erythropoietin Protects Against Lipopolysaccharide-Induced Microgliosis and Abnormal Granule Cell Development in the Ovine Fetal Cerebellum. Front Cell Neurosci 2017; 11:224. [PMID: 28804448 PMCID: PMC5532439 DOI: 10.3389/fncel.2017.00224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2017] [Accepted: 07/13/2017] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Erythropoietin (EPO) ameliorates inflammation-induced injury in cerebral white matter (WM). However, effects of inflammation on the cerebellum and neuroprotective effects of EPO are unknown. Our aims were to determine: (i) whether lipopolysaccharide (LPS)-induced intrauterine inflammation causes injury to, and/or impairs development of the cerebellum; and (ii) whether recombinant human EPO (rhEPO) mitigates these changes. At 107 ± 1 days gestational age (DGA; ~0.7 of term), fetal sheep received LPS (~0.9 μg/kg; i.v.) or an equivalent volume of saline, followed 1 h later with 5000 IU/kg rhEPO (i.v.) or an equivalent volume of saline (i.v.). This generated the following experimental groups: control (saline + saline; n = 6), LPS (LPS + saline, n = 8) and LPS + rhEPO (n = 8). At necropsy (116 ± 1 DGA; ~0.8 of term) the brain was perfusion-fixed and stained histologically (H&E) and immunostained to identify granule cells (Neuronal Nuclei, NeuN), granule cell proliferation (Ki67), Bergmann glia (glial fibrillary acidic protein, GFAP), astrogliosis (GFAP) and microgliosis (Iba-1). In comparison to controls, LPS fetuses had an increased density of Iba-1-positive microglia (p < 0.005) in the lobular WM; rhEPO prevented this increase (p < 0.05). The thickness of both the proliferative (Ki67-positive) and post-mitotic zones (Ki67-negative) of the EGL were increased in LPS-exposed fetuses compared to controls (p < 0.05), but were not different between controls and LPS + rhEPO fetuses. LPS also increased (p < 0.001) the density of granule cells (NeuN-positive) in the internal granule layer (IGL); rhEPO prevented the increase (p < 0.01). There was no difference between groups in the areas of the vermis (total cross-section), molecular layer (ML), IGL or WM, the density of NeuN-positive granule cells in the ML, the linear density of Bergmann glial fibers, the areal density or somal area of the Purkinje cells, the areal coverage of GFAP-positive astrocytes in the lobular and deep WM, the density of Iba-1-positive microglia in the deep WM or the density of apopotic cells in the cerebellum. LPS-induced intrauterine inflammation caused microgliosis and abnormal development of granule cells. rhEPO ameliorated these changes, suggesting that it is neuroprotective against LPS-induced inflammatory effects in the cerebellum.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Annie R A McDougall
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Nadia Hale
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Sandra Rees
- Department of Anatomy and Neuroscience, University of MelbourneParkville, VIC, Australia
| | - Richard Harding
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Robert De Matteo
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Stuart B Hooper
- The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical ResearchClayton, VIC, Australia.,Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Monash UniversityClayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Mary Tolcos
- School of Health and Biomedical Sciences, RMIT UniversityMelbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Lowe JR, Rieger RE, Moss NC, Yeo RA, Winter S, Patel S, Phillips J, Campbell R, Baker S, Gonzales S, Ohls RK. Impact of Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents on Behavioral Measures in Children Born Preterm. J Pediatr 2017; 184:75-80.e1. [PMID: 28185625 PMCID: PMC6352724 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpeds.2017.01.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2016] [Revised: 12/09/2016] [Accepted: 01/06/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the impact of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) administered during initial hospitalization and family demographic factors on behavior at 3.5-4 years of age. STUDY DESIGN Children were enrolled who had previously participated in a randomized study of ESAs (n = 35) or placebo (n = 14) in infants born preterm with birth weights of 500-1250 g. A term healthy control group (n = 22) also was recruited. Behavior was evaluated by parent report with the Behavioral Assessment System of Children-2. Principal component analyses identified 2 demographic factors, a Socioeconomic Composite (SEC) and a Family Stress Composite. A multivariate general linear model evaluated the impact of study group and sex on the 4 composite scales of the Behavioral Assessment System of Children-2. Demographic factors were treated as covariates and interactions with study group (ESA, placebo, and term) were examined. RESULTS The ESA group had significantly better scores than the placebo group on behavioral symptoms (P = .04) and externalizing scales (P = .04). An interaction was observed between study group and SEC (P = .001). A beneficial effect of ESAs was maximal in the children with lower SEC scores. CONCLUSIONS The beneficial effects of ESAs on childhood behavior were maximal in children with lower SEC scores. ESAs seemed to ameliorate the adverse impact of lower SEC on behavioral domains seen in the placebo group. This effect was independent of the beneficial effect of ESAs on global cognition we reported previously. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT01207778 and NCT00334737.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jean R. Lowe
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico School
of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM
| | | | - Natalia C. Moss
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico,
Albuquerque, NM
| | - Ronald A. Yeo
- Department of Psychology, University of New Mexico,
Albuquerque, NM
| | - Sarah Winter
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake
City, UT
| | - Shrena Patel
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake
City, UT
| | - John Phillips
- Department of Neurology, University of New Mexico,
Albuquerque, NM
| | - Richard Campbell
- Department of Psychiatry, University of New Mexico,
Albuquerque, NM
| | - Shawna Baker
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Utah, Salt Lake
City, UT
| | - Sean Gonzales
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico School
of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Robin K. Ohls
- Department of Pediatrics, University of New Mexico School
of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Wassink G, Davidson JO, Dhillon SK, Fraser M, Galinsky R, Bennet L, Gunn AJ. Partial white and grey matter protection with prolonged infusion of recombinant human erythropoietin after asphyxia in preterm fetal sheep. J Cereb Blood Flow Metab 2017; 37:1080-1094. [PMID: 27207167 PMCID: PMC5363482 DOI: 10.1177/0271678x16650455] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
Perinatal asphyxia in preterm infants remains a significant contributor to abnormal long-term neurodevelopmental outcomes. Recombinant human erythropoietin has potent non-haematopoietic neuroprotective properties, but there is limited evidence for protection in the preterm brain. Preterm (0.7 gestation) fetal sheep received sham asphyxia (sham occlusion) or asphyxia induced by umbilical cord occlusion for 25 min, followed by an intravenous infusion of vehicle (occlusion-vehicle) or recombinant human erythropoietin (occlusion-Epo, 5000 international units by slow push, then 832.5 IU/h), starting 30 min after asphyxia and continued until 72 h. Recombinant human erythropoietin reduced neuronal loss and numbers of caspase-3-positive cells in the striatal caudate nucleus, CA3 and dentate gyrus of the hippocampus, and thalamic medial nucleus ( P < 0.05 vs. occlusion-vehicle). In the white matter tracts, recombinant human erythropoietin increased total, but not immature/mature oligodendrocytes ( P < 0.05 vs. occlusion-vehicle), with increased cell proliferation and reduced induction of activated caspase-3, microglia and astrocytes ( P < 0.05). Finally, occlusion-Epo reduced seizure burden, with more rapid recovery of electroencephalogram power, spectral edge frequency, and carotid blood flow. In summary, prolonged infusion of recombinant human erythropoietin after severe asphyxia in preterm fetal sheep was partially neuroprotective and improved electrophysiological and cerebrovascular recovery, in association with reduced apoptosis and inflammation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Guido Wassink
- 1 Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Joanne O Davidson
- 1 Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Simerdeep K Dhillon
- 1 Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Mhoyra Fraser
- 1 Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Robert Galinsky
- 1 Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.,2 The Ritchie Centre, Hudson Institute of Medical Research, Clayton, VIC, Australia
| | - Laura Bennet
- 1 Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alistair J Gunn
- 1 Department of Physiology, The University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand
| |
Collapse
|
48
|
Park SH. Clinical Trials for Preterm Infants' Neurodevelopment to the Norm: Erythropoietin and Nutritional Interventions. NEONATAL MEDICINE 2017. [DOI: 10.5385/nm.2017.24.3.101] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Sook-Hyun Park
- Department of Pediatrics, Kyungpook National University School of Medicine, Daegu, Korea
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Cho KH, Min K, Lee SH, Lee S, An SA, Kim M. Clinical Trial of Erythropoietin in Young Children With Cerebral Palsy. J Child Neurol 2016; 31:1227-34. [PMID: 27233796 DOI: 10.1177/0883073816650038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/16/2016] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This study was conducted to assess the safety and efficacy of recombinant human erythropoietin in young children with cerebral palsy aged between 6 months and 3 years. All participants received subcutaneous recombinant human erythropoietin and 8 weeks of rehabilitation therapy. Adverse events, changes of vital signs, and hematologic tests were monitored up to 8 weeks postinjection. Functional measures of development at 4 and 8 weeks postinjection were compared with baseline values, and improvements were compared with those of an age-matched historical control group. Nine participants completed the trial from June 2012 to February 2015. No adverse events were related to recombinant human erythropoietin. Erythropoiesis was noted, although within normal range. Functional improvements were observed in all participants (P < .05) and increases in motor function were higher in recombinant human erythropoietin group than the control group. Accordingly, recombinant human erythropoietin administration was safe without any significant adverse events and improved the functional outcomes in young children with cerebral palsy.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kye Hee Cho
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Kyunghoon Min
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - Seung Hoon Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - SunHee Lee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - SeongSoo A An
- Department of Bionanotechnology and Gachon Medical Research Institute, Gachon University, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| | - MinYoung Kim
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, CHA Bundang Medical Center, CHA University, Gyeonggi-do, Republic of Korea
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Li X, Gao J, Wang M, Wan M, Yang J. Rapid and reliable tract-based spatial statistics pipeline for diffusion tensor imaging in the neonatal brain: Applications to the white matter development and lesions. Magn Reson Imaging 2016; 34:1314-1321. [PMID: 27469313 DOI: 10.1016/j.mri.2016.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2016] [Revised: 07/06/2016] [Accepted: 07/18/2016] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE The relatively poor image contrast and variation in the neonatal brain size are technical challenges associated with the typical tract-based spatial statistics (TBSS) for the target identification and normalization. This study aimed to develop a rapid and reliable pipeline for the neonatal TBSS. MATERIALS AND METHODS A rapid TBSS strategy was proposed based on the group-wise target choice for fractional anisotropy (FA) derived from diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). The most representative subject of the entire group was identified via (a) initial group-averaged template creation (b) followed by identification of the target with the minimum warp displacement score between the individual and the group-averaged template. The computation time, registration quality, measurement of regional values, and statistical analyses were evaluated in two applications: brain white matter development in normal term neonates, and alterations in preterm neonates with white matter lesions compared to the matched controls. These performances in the proposed pipeline were compared with those in the typical and previous neonatal TBSS workflows. RESULTS Target choice using the proposed strategy is faster, compared with the previous TBSS pipelines, especially with the increase of the sample size. Registration errors between individuals and the target are assessed through warp displacement scores. Smaller warp displacement scores are observed for the proposed method than the typical pipeline. Due to the relatively accurate registration, the proposed method results in lower standard deviations and higher averaged values of FA across subjects. Additionally, more areas with significant changes related to the development and white matter lesions are detected using the proposed method than previous TBSS pipelines. The proposed pipeline provides stronger correlation between FA and gestational age, and larger difference between preterm neonates with white matter lesions and controls. CONCLUSION The proposed TBSS pipeline improves the efficiency and reliability of the DTI analysis in the neonatal brain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xianjun Li
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Jie Gao
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Miaomiao Wang
- Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China
| | - Mingxi Wan
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| | - Jian Yang
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Key Laboratory of Biomedical Information Engineering of the Ministry of Education, School of Life Science and Technology, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China; Department of Radiology, The First Affiliated Hospital of Medical School, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, Shaanxi, China.
| |
Collapse
|