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Gipson DR, Chang AL, Lure AC, Mehta SA, Gowen T, Shumans E, Stevenson D, de la Cruz D, Aghaeepour N, Neu J. Reassessing acquired neonatal intestinal diseases using unsupervised machine learning. Pediatr Res 2024; 96:165-171. [PMID: 38413766 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-024-03074-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 02/29/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Acquired neonatal intestinal diseases have an array of overlapping presentations and are often labeled under the dichotomous classification of necrotizing enterocolitis (which is poorly defined) or spontaneous intestinal perforation, hindering more precise diagnosis and research. The objective of this study was to take a fresh look at neonatal intestinal disease classification using unsupervised machine learning. METHODS Patients admitted to the University of Florida Shands Neonatal Intensive Care Unit January 2013-September 2019 diagnosed with an intestinal injury, or had imaging findings of portal venous gas, pneumatosis, abdominal free air, or had an abdominal drain placed or exploratory laparotomy during admission were included. Congenital gastroschisis, omphalocele, intestinal atresia, malrotation were excluded. Data was collected via retrospective chart review with subsequent hierarchal, unsupervised clustering analysis. RESULTS Five clusters of intestinal injury were identified: Cluster 1 deemed the "Low Mortality" cluster, Cluster 2 deemed the "Mature with Inflammation" cluster, Cluster 3 deemed the "Immature with High Mortality" cluster, Cluster 4 deemed the "Late Injury at Full Feeds" cluster, and Cluster 5 deemed the "Late Injury with High Rate of Intestinal Necrosis" cluster. CONCLUSION Unsupervised machine learning can be used to cluster acquired neonatal intestinal injuries. Future study with larger multicenter datasets is needed to further refine and classify types of intestinal diseases. IMPACT Unsupervised machine learning can be used to cluster types of acquired neonatal intestinal injury. Five major clusters of acquired neonatal intestinal injury are described, each with unique features. The clusters herein described deserve future, multicenter study to determine more specific early biomarkers and tailored therapeutic interventions to improve outcomes of often devastating neonatal acquired intestinal injuries.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniel R Gipson
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Gainesville, FL, USA.
| | - Alan L Chang
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Pain, and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, and Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Allison C Lure
- Nationwide Children's Hospital, The Ohio State University College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Columbus, OH, USA
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Sonia A Mehta
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Gainesville, FL, USA
- University of California, Irvine Medical Center, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - Taylor Gowen
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Gainesville, FL, USA
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Erin Shumans
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - David Stevenson
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Diomel de la Cruz
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Nima Aghaeepour
- Stanford University School of Medicine, Department of Anesthesiology, Pain, and Perioperative Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, and Department of Biomedical Data Science, Stanford, CA, USA
| | - Josef Neu
- University of Florida College of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology, Gainesville, FL, USA
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Lueschow-Guijosa SR, Stanford AH, Berger JN, Gong H, Boly TJ, Jensen BA, Nordkild P, Leegwater AJ, Wehkamp J, Underwood MA, McElroy SJ. Host defense peptides human β defensin 2 and LL-37 ameliorate murine necrotizing enterocolitis. iScience 2024; 27:109993. [PMID: 38846005 PMCID: PMC11154634 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2024.109993] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/04/2024] [Revised: 03/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a leading cause of preterm infant morbidity and mortality. Treatment for NEC is limited and non-targeted, which makes new treatment and prevention strategies critical. Host defense peptides (HDPs) are essential components of the innate immune system and have multifactorial mechanisms in host defense. LL-37 and hBD2 are two HDPs that have been shown in prior literature to protect from neonatal sepsis-induced mortality or adult inflammatory bowel disease, respectively. Therefore, this article sought to understand if these two HDPs could influence NEC severity in murine preclinical models. NEC was induced in P14-16 C57Bl/6 mice and HDPs were provided as a pretreatment or treatment. Both LL-37 and hBD2 resulted in decreased NEC injury scores as a treatment and hBD2 as a pretreatment. Our data suggest LL-37 functions through antimicrobial properties, while hBD2 functions through decreases in inflammation and improvement of intestinal barrier integrity.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Amy H. Stanford
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Jennifer N. Berger
- Department of Pediatrics, Children’s Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN 55404, USA
| | - Huiyu Gong
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Timothy J. Boly
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA
| | - Benjamin A.H. Jensen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health and Medical Sciences, University of Copenhagen, 1165 Copenhagen, Denmark
| | | | | | - Jan Wehkamp
- Department of Internal Medicine, University of Tübingen, 72074 Tübingen, Germany
| | - Mark A. Underwood
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95616, USA
| | - Steven J. McElroy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95616, USA
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3
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Martin CA, Markel TA. Preface: Necrotizing enterocolitis. Semin Pediatr Surg 2023; 32:151303. [PMID: 37279638 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2023.151303] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Colin A Martin
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, USA.
| | - Troy A Markel
- Department of Surgery, Section of Pediatric Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, IN, USA
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4
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Wala SJ, Ragan MV, Sajankila N, Volpe SG, Purayil N, Dumbauld Z, Besner GE. Probiotics and novel probiotic delivery systems. Semin Pediatr Surg 2023; 32:151307. [PMID: 37295299 DOI: 10.1016/j.sempedsurg.2023.151307] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an infectious and inflammatory intestinal disease that is the most common surgical emergency in the premature patient population. Although the etiology of the disease is multifactorial, intestinal dysbiosis is a hallmark of this disease. Based on this, probiotics may play a therapeutic role in NEC by introducing beneficial bacteria with immunomodulating, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory functions into the gastrointestinal tract. Currently, there is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved probiotic for the prevention and treatment of NEC. All probiotic clinical studies to date have administered the bacteria in their planktonic (free-living) state. This review will discuss established probiotic delivery systems including planktonic probiotics, prebiotics, and synbiotics, as well as novel probiotic delivery systems such as biofilm-based and designer probiotics. We will also shed light on whether or not probiotic efficacy is influenced by administration with breast milk. Finally, we will consider the challenges associated with developing an FDA-approved probiotic for NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samantha J Wala
- Center for Perinatal Research, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Mecklin V Ragan
- Center for Perinatal Research, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nitin Sajankila
- Center for Perinatal Research, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Samuel G Volpe
- Center for Perinatal Research, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Nanditha Purayil
- Center for Perinatal Research, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Zachary Dumbauld
- Center for Perinatal Research, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA
| | - Gail E Besner
- Center for Perinatal Research, Department of Pediatric Surgery, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, OH, USA.
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5
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McElroy SJ, Lueschow SR. State of the art review on machine learning and artificial intelligence in the study of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1182597. [PMID: 37303753 PMCID: PMC10250644 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1182597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/13/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing Enterocolitis (NEC) is one of the leading causes of gastrointestinal emergency in preterm infants. Although NEC was formally described in the 1960's, there is still difficulty in diagnosis and ultimately treatment for NEC due in part to the multifactorial nature of the disease. Artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) techniques have been applied by healthcare researchers over the past 30 years to better understand various diseases. Specifically, NEC researchers have used AI and ML to predict NEC diagnosis, NEC prognosis, discover biomarkers, and evaluate treatment strategies. In this review, we discuss AI and ML techniques, the current literature that has applied AI and ML to NEC, and some of the limitations in the field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steven J. McElroy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA, United States
| | - Shiloh R. Lueschow
- Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
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6
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Hoffsten A, Lilja HE, Mobini-Far H, Sindelar R, Markasz L. Paneth cell proteins DEFA6 and GUCA2A as tissue markers in necrotizing enterocolitis. Eur J Pediatr 2023:10.1007/s00431-023-04907-3. [PMID: 37017768 PMCID: PMC10257617 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-04907-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2022] [Revised: 02/17/2023] [Accepted: 02/26/2023] [Indexed: 04/06/2023]
Abstract
Previous studies suggest that Paneth cells are involved in NEC development. Defensin alpha 6 (DEFA6) and guanylate cyclase activator 2A (GUCA2A) are selective protein markers of Paneth cells. The objective was to explore DEFA6 and GUCA2A expression in intestinal tissue samples from newborn infants with and without NEC. Tissue samples from histologically intact intestine were analyzed from 70 infants: 43 underwent bowel resection due to NEC and 27 controls were operated due to conditions such as intestinal atresia, dysmotility, aganglionosis, pseudo-obstruction or volvulus. Each tissue sample was immunohistochemically stained for DEFA6 and GUCA2A. Semi-automated digital image analysis was performed to determine protein expression. Clinical data and protein expressions were compared between the groups. DEFA6 expression was lower in the NEC group (p = 0.006). Low DEFA6 correlated with risk of developing NEC in a logistic regression analysis, independently of gestational age and birth weight (OR 0.843 [CI 0.732-0.971]; p = 0.018). GUCA2A expression did not differ between the two groups. CONCLUSION Lower expression of DEFA6 together with intact GUCA2A expression indicates that NEC patients have well-defined Paneth cells but diminished defensin activity. Our results suggest that DEFA6 could be used as a biomarker for NEC. WHAT IS KNOWN • Previous studies of defensin activity in NEC have been inconsistent, showing that defensin levels may be increased or diminished in NEC. GUCA2A has to our knowledge never been studied in NEC. WHAT IS NEW • This study benchmarks two specific Paneth cell markers (DEFA6 and GUCA2A) and their activity in individuals with and without NEC. • The key finding is that the NEC group had a lower DEFA6 expression compared to the Controls, while the expression of GUCA2A did not differ between the groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Hoffsten
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden.
| | - Helene Engstrand Lilja
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Hamid Mobini-Far
- Department of Pathology, Uppsala University Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
- Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Richard Sindelar
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Laszlo Markasz
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, SE-751 85, Sweden
- Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
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7
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Sajankila N, Wala SJ, Ragan MV, Volpe SG, Dumbauld Z, Purayil N, Mihi B, Besner GE. Current and future methods of probiotic therapy for necrotizing enterocolitis. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1120459. [PMID: 36937955 PMCID: PMC10017871 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1120459] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 01/31/2023] [Indexed: 03/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a complex intestinal disease that primarily affects premature neonates. Given its significant mortality and morbidity, there is an urgent need to develop improved prophylactic measures against the disease. One potential preventative strategy for NEC is the use of probiotics. Although there has been significant interest for decades in probiotics in neonatal care, no clear guidelines exist regarding which probiotic to use or for which patients, and no FDA-approved products exist on the market for NEC. In addition, there is lack of agreement regarding the benefits of probiotics in neonates, as well as some concerns about the safety and efficacy of available products. We discuss currently available probiotics as well as next-generation probiotics and novel delivery strategies which may offer an avenue to capitalize on the benefits of probiotics, while minimizing the risks. Thus, probiotics may still prove to be an effective prevention strategy for NEC, although further product development and research is needed to support use in the preterm population.
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8
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Manohar K, Mesfin FM, Liu J, Shelley WC, Brokaw JP, Markel TA. Gut-Brain cross talk: The pathogenesis of neurodevelopmental impairment in necrotizing enterocolitis. Front Pediatr 2023; 11:1104682. [PMID: 36873645 PMCID: PMC9975605 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2023.1104682] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/23/2023] [Indexed: 02/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating condition of multi-factorial origin that affects the intestine of premature infants and results in high morbidity and mortality. Infants that survive contend with several long-term sequelae including neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI)-which encompasses cognitive and psychosocial deficits as well as motor, vision, and hearing impairment. Alterations in the gut-brain axis (GBA) homeostasis have been implicated in the pathogenesis of NEC and the development of NDI. The crosstalk along the GBA suggests that microbial dysbiosis and subsequent bowel injury can initiate systemic inflammation which is followed by pathogenic signaling cascades with multiple pathways that ultimately lead to the brain. These signals reach the brain and activate an inflammatory cascade in the brain resulting in white matter injury, impaired myelination, delayed head growth, and eventual downstream NDI. The purpose of this review is to summarize the NDI seen in NEC, discuss what is known about the GBA, explore the relationship between the GBA and perinatal brain injury in the setting of NEC, and finally, highlight the existing research into possible therapies to help prevent these deleterious outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Krishna Manohar
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM), Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Fikir M Mesfin
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM), Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Jianyun Liu
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM), Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - W Christopher Shelley
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM), Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - John P Brokaw
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM), Indianapolis, IN, United States
| | - Troy A Markel
- Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine (IUSM), Indianapolis, IN, United States.,Riley Hospital for Children, Indiana University Health, Indianapolis, IN, United States
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9
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A critical evaluation of current definitions of necrotizing enterocolitis. Pediatr Res 2022; 91:590-597. [PMID: 34021272 DOI: 10.1038/s41390-021-01570-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2021] [Revised: 04/19/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/24/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a devastating intestinal disease of premature infants, with significant mortality and long-term morbidity among survivors. Multiple NEC definitions exist, but no formal head-to-head evaluation has been performed. We hypothesized that contemporary definitions would perform better in evaluation metrics than Bell's and range features would be more frequently identified as important than yes/no features. METHODS Two hundred and nineteen patients from the University of Iowa hospital with NEC, intestinal perforation, or NEC concern were identified from a 10-year retrospective cohort. NEC presence was confirmed by a blinded investigator. Evaluation metrics were calculated using statistics and six supervised machine learning classifiers for current NEC definitions. Feature importance evaluation was performed on each decision tree classifier. RESULTS Newer definitions outperformed Bell's staging using both standard statistics and most machine learning classifiers. The decision tree classifier had the highest overall machine learning scores, which resulted in Non-Bell definitions having high sensitivity (0.826, INC) and specificity (0.969, ST), while Modified Bell (IIA+) had reasonable sensitivity (0.783), but poor specificity (0.531). Feature importance evaluation identified nine criteria as important for diagnosis. CONCLUSIONS This preliminary study suggests that Non-Bell NEC definitions may be better at diagnosing NEC and calls for further examination of definitions and important criteria. IMPACT This article is the first formal head-to-head evaluation of current available definitions of NEC. Non-Bell NEC definitions may be more effective in identifying NEC based on findings from traditional measures of diagnostic performance and machine learning techniques. Nine features were identified as important for diagnosis from the definitions evaluated within the decision tree when performing supervised classification machine learning. This article serves as a preliminary study to formally evaluate the definitions of NEC utilized and should be expounded upon with a larger and more diverse patient cohort.
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10
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Lueschow SR, Boly TJ, Frese SA, Casaburi G, Mitchell RD, Henrick BM, McElroy SJ. Bifidobacterium longum Subspecies infantis Strain EVC001 Decreases Neonatal Murine Necrotizing Enterocolitis. Nutrients 2022; 14:495. [PMID: 35276854 PMCID: PMC8839161 DOI: 10.3390/nu14030495] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2021] [Revised: 01/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2022] [Indexed: 01/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a disease mainly of preterm infants with a 30-50% mortality rate and long-term morbidities for survivors. Treatment strategies are limited and have not improved in decades, prompting research into prevention strategies, particularly with probiotics. Recent work with the probiotic B. infantis EVC001 suggests that this organism may generate a more appropriate microbiome for preterm infants who generally have inappropriate gut colonization and inflammation, both risk factors for NEC. Experimental NEC involving Paneth cell disruption in combination with bacterial dysbiosis or formula feeding was induced in P14-16 C57Bl/6 mice with or without gavaged B. infantis. Following completion of the model, serum, small intestinal tissue, the cecum, and colon were harvested to examine inflammatory cytokines, injury, and the microbiome, respectively. EVC001 treatment significantly decreased NEC in a bacterial dysbiosis dependent model, but this decrease was model-dependent. In the NEC model dependent on formula feeding, no difference in injury was observed, but trending to significant differences was observed in serum cytokines. EVC001 also improved wound closure at six and twelve hours compared to the sham control in intestinal epithelial monolayers. These findings suggest that B. infantis EVC001 can prevent experimental NEC through anti-inflammatory and epithelial barrier restoration properties.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiloh R. Lueschow
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Timothy J. Boly
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 52242, USA;
| | - Steven A. Frese
- Department of Nutrition, University of Nevada, Reno, NV 89557, USA;
| | - Giorgio Casaburi
- Department of Bioinformatics, Metabiomics, Carlsbad, CA 92008, USA;
| | - Ryan D. Mitchell
- Evolve Biosystems, Inc., Davis, CA 95618, USA; (R.D.M.); (B.M.H.)
| | - Bethany M. Henrick
- Evolve Biosystems, Inc., Davis, CA 95618, USA; (R.D.M.); (B.M.H.)
- Department of Food Science and Technology, University of Nebraska, Lincoln, NE 68588, USA
| | - Steven J. McElroy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of California Davis, Sacramento, CA 95817, USA
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11
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Healy DB, Ryan CA, Ross RP, Stanton C, Dempsey EM. Clinical implications of preterm infant gut microbiome development. Nat Microbiol 2022; 7:22-33. [PMID: 34949830 DOI: 10.1038/s41564-021-01025-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 23.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2021] [Accepted: 11/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Perturbations to the infant gut microbiome during the first weeks to months of life affect growth, development and health. In particular, assembly of an altered intestinal microbiota during infant development results in an increased risk of immune and metabolic diseases that can persist into childhood and potentially into adulthood. Most research into gut microbiome development has focused on full-term babies, but health-related outcomes are also important for preterm babies. The systemic physiological immaturity of very preterm gestation babies (born earlier than 32 weeks gestation) results in numerous other microbiome-organ interactions, the mechanisms of which have yet to be fully elucidated or in some cases even considered. In this Perspective, we compare assembly of the intestinal microbiome in preterm and term infants. We focus in particular on the clinical implications of preterm infant gut microbiome composition and discuss the prospects for microbiome diagnostics and interventions to improve the health of preterm babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B Healy
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland. .,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
| | - C Anthony Ryan
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - R Paul Ross
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland
| | - Catherine Stanton
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Teagasc Food Research Centre, Moorepark, Fermoy, Ireland
| | - Eugene M Dempsey
- APC Microbiome Ireland, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,Department of Paediatrics and Child Health, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.,INFANT Research Centre, Cork University Hospital, Cork, Ireland
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12
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Abou El Fadl DK, Ahmed MA, Aly YAF, Darweesh EAG, Sabri NA. Impact of Docosahexaenoic acid supplementation on proinflammatory cytokines release and the development of Necrotizing enterocolitis in preterm Neonates: A randomized controlled study. Saudi Pharm J 2021; 29:1314-1322. [PMID: 34819793 PMCID: PMC8596146 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2021.09.012] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 09/14/2021] [Indexed: 10/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Preterm neonates have under-developed immune-regulatory system; consequently, there is a risk for developing chronic inflammation. Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is an acute devastating neonatal intestinal inflammatory disorder. Due to the obscure multifactorial etiology, early diagnosis and effective treatment of NEC are limited. Consequently, effective strategies in the prevention of NEC, including nutritional approaches, are critically needed. The current study was conducted to assess the potential immunomodulatory effect of Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) supplementation in preterm neonates at neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) and subsequently its effect on preventing or reducing NEC incidence. METHODS This was a prospective randomized controlled study. A total of 67 neonates, with gestational age equal or less than 32 weeks at birth and weight less than or equal 1500 g, were randomly assigned to either DHA group or the control group. Modified Bell's staging criteria for NEC was used as an objective tool for diagnosis and staging of NEC. Levels of Interleukin 1 beta (IL-1β) were measured at baseline and after 10 days. Mortality and NICU length of stay (LOS) were also monitored. RESULTS Thirty neonates of each group completed the study. A statistically significant difference was observed between the two groups regarding diagnosis and staging of NEC (p = 0.0001). There was also a statistically significant difference between DHA group 22(73.3), 95% CI [55.9, 86.5] and the control group 8 (26.7), 95% CI [13.5, 44.1] in the percentage change in IL-1β levels (p = 0.0001).A statistically significant association was found between IL and 1 β change and NEC diagnosis (p = 0.001). NICU LOS was significantly lower among DHA group 21.63 ± 6.67 compared to the control group 25.07 ± 4.67 (p = 0.025). Mortality n (%) among the control group 4 (11.8) was higher than DHA group 3 (9.1), however, no significant difference was detected (p = 1.0). CONCLUSION Findings of this study suggest that enteral DHA supplementation can reduce NEC incidence in preterm neonates through its immunoregulatory effect that modulates production of regulatory cytokines.Trial registration: Registered at clinical trials.gov (NCT03700957), 6 October 2018.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dina Khaled Abou El Fadl
- Pharmacy Practice & Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Pharmaceutical Industries, Future University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Marwa Adel Ahmed
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Yasmin AF Aly
- Paediatrics Department, Faculty of Medicine, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Ebtissam Abdel Ghaffar Darweesh
- Pharmacy Practice & Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences & Pharmaceutical Industries, Future University in Egypt, Cairo, Egypt
| | - Nagwa A. Sabri
- Clinical Pharmacy Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Ain Shams University, Cairo, Egypt
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13
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Hoffsten A, Markasz L, Lilja HE, Olsson KW, Sindelar R. Early Postnatal Comprehensive Biomarkers Cannot Identify Extremely Preterm Infants at Risk of Developing Necrotizing Enterocolitis. Front Pediatr 2021; 9:755437. [PMID: 34746064 PMCID: PMC8570110 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2021.755437] [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] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2021] [Accepted: 09/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a fatal disease where current diagnostic tools are insufficient for preventing NEC. Early predictive biomarkers could be beneficial in identifying infants at high risk of developing NEC. Objective: To explore early biomarkers for predicting NEC in extremely preterm infants (EPIs). Methods: Blood samples were collected on day 2 (median 1.7; range 1.5-2.0) from 40 EPI (median 25 gestational weeks; range 22-27): 11 developed NEC and 29 did not (controls). In each infant, 189 inflammatory, oncological, and vascular proteomic biomarkers were quantified through Proximity Extension Assay. Biomarker expression and clinical data were compared between the NEC group and Controls. Based on biomarker differences, controls were sorted automatically into three subgroups (1, 2, and 3) by a two-dimensional hierarchical clustering analysis. Results: None of the biomarkers differed in expression between all controls and the NEC group. Two biomarkers were higher in Control 1, and 16 biomarkers were lower in Control group 2 compared with the NEC group. No biomarker distinguished Control 3 from the NEC group. Perinatal data were similar in the whole population. Conclusions: Early postnatal comprehensive biomarkers do not identify EPIs at risk of developing NEC in our study. Future studies of predictors of NEC should include sequential analysis of comprehensive proteomic markers in large cohorts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Hoffsten
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Laszlo Markasz
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Helene Engstrand Lilja
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Section of Pediatric Surgery, University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Karl Wilhelm Olsson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Department of Surgical Sciences, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Richard Sindelar
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Uppsala University, Uppsala, Sweden.,Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, University Children's Hospital, Uppsala, Sweden
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14
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Nolan LS, Rimer JM, Good M. The Role of Human Milk Oligosaccharides and Probiotics on the Neonatal Microbiome and Risk of Necrotizing Enterocolitis: A Narrative Review. Nutrients 2020; 12:E3052. [PMID: 33036184 PMCID: PMC7600747 DOI: 10.3390/nu12103052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2020] [Revised: 09/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/02/2020] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm infants are a vulnerable population at risk of intestinal dysbiosis. The newborn microbiome is dominated by Bifidobacterium species, though abnormal microbial colonization can occur by exogenous factors such as mode of delivery, formula feeding, and exposure to antibiotics. Therefore, preterm infants are predisposed to sepsis and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a fatal gastrointestinal disorder, due to an impaired intestinal barrier, immature immunity, and a dysbiotic gut microbiome. Properties of human milk serve as protection in the prevention of NEC. Human milk oligosaccharides (HMOs) and the microbiome of breast milk are immunomodulatory components that provide intestinal homeostasis through regulation of the microbiome and protection of the intestinal barrier. Enteral probiotic supplements have been trialed to evaluate their impact on establishing intestinal homeostasis. Here, we review the protective role of HMOs, probiotics, and synbiotic combinations in protecting a vulnerable population from the pathogenic features associated with necrotizing enterocolitis.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Misty Good
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Newborn Medicine, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA; (L.S.N.); (J.M.R.)
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15
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Lueschow SR, McElroy SJ. The Paneth Cell: The Curator and Defender of the Immature Small Intestine. Front Immunol 2020; 11:587. [PMID: 32308658 PMCID: PMC7145889 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2020.00587] [Citation(s) in RCA: 119] [Impact Index Per Article: 29.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Paneth cells were first described in the late 19th century by Gustav Schwalbe and Josef Paneth as columnar epithelial cells possessing prominent eosinophilic granules in their cytoplasm. Decades later there is continued interest in Paneth cells as they play an integral role in maintaining intestinal homeostasis and modulating the physiology of the small intestine and its associated microbial flora. Paneth cells are highly specialized secretory epithelial cells located in the small intestinal crypts of Lieberkühn. The dense granules produced by Paneth cells contain an abundance of antimicrobial peptides and immunomodulating proteins that function to regulate the composition of the intestinal flora. This in turn plays a significant role in secondary regulation of the host microvasculature, the normal injury and repair mechanisms of the intestinal epithelial layer, and the levels of intestinal inflammation. These critical functions may have even more importance in the immature intestine of premature infants. While Paneth cells begin to develop in the middle of human gestation, they do not become immune competent or reach their adult density until closer to term gestation. This leaves preterm infants deficient in normal Paneth cell biology during the greatest window of susceptibility to develop intestinal pathology such as necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). As 10% of infants worldwide are currently born prematurely, there is a significant population of infants contending with an inadequate cohort of Paneth cells. Infants who have developed NEC have decreased Paneth cell numbers compared to age-matched controls, and ablation of murine Paneth cells results in a NEC-like phenotype suggesting again that Paneth cell function is critical to homeostasis to the immature intestine. This review will provide an up to date and comprehensive look at Paneth cell ontogeny, the impact Paneth cells have on the host-microbial axis in the immature intestine, and the repercussions of Paneth cell dysfunction or loss on injury and repair mechanisms in the immature gut.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shiloh R Lueschow
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
| | - Steven J McElroy
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States.,Stead Family Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, United States
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16
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Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a poorly defined disease that primarily affects preterm infants. There has not been much progress in the prevention or treatment of NEC since it became recognized as a common problem in preterm infants. Reasons for this lack of progress include the likelihood that different diseases are being put under the same moniker of "NEC," similar to using "diabetes" for the different diseases it represents. In order to make progress, better delineation of the phenotypes that present as NEC will be necessary to clearly establish their pathophysiology, find specific and sensitive biomarkers, and establish preventative regimens. In this review, we summarize some of the entities that are being called NEC, discuss the pathophysiology of the most classic form of NEC, and provide an overview of how we might proceed in the future to make progress in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Josef Neu
- University of Florida, Gainesville, USA.
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17
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Surgical necrotizing enterocolitis but not spontaneous intestinal perforation is associated with adverse neurological outcome at school age. Sci Rep 2020; 10:2373. [PMID: 32047169 PMCID: PMC7012917 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-020-58761-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2019] [Accepted: 12/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
Gastrointestinal complications during the neonatal period, i.e. necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) and spontaneous intestinal perforation (SIP), are associated with adverse short-term outcome in very-low-birthweight infants (VLBWI, <1500 g birth weight). However, little is known about the neurological outcome of survivors at school age. We analysed data of 2241 infants followed-up at the age of 6 years. To determine the effect of NEC and SIP on cognitive outcome in consideration of other important confounding factors, we used multivariable logistic regression models. In addition, infants with surgical diagnosis of NEC (n = 43) or SIP (n = 41) were compared to NEC (n = 43) or SIP (n = 41) negative controls using Mahalanobis distance matching. Infants with a history for NEC had a three times increased risk (RR 3.0 [1.8-4.2], p < 0.001) to develop IQ scores <85 while history of surgical SIP did not increase the relative risk for lower IQs at school age (RR 1.0 [0.4-2.1], p = 1.000). In a matched-cohort analysis, we confirmed that infants with surgical NEC had lower mean IQ results than unaffected controls (±SD) (85±17 vs. 94±14, p = 0.023) while no differences were found for history of SIP. Our results reflect that the different aetiology and inflammatory extent of NEC and SIP may lead to disparate neurodevelopment trajectories. Hence, our data suggest a potential role of early gut-brain axis distortion in infants with NEC which needs to be further explored.
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18
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Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis occurs in 14% of infants less than 1000 g. Preoperative management varies widely, and the only absolute indication for surgery is pneumoperitoneum. Multiple biomarkers and scoring systems are under investigation, but clinical practice is still largely driven by surgeon judgment. Outcomes in panintestinal disease are poor, and multiple creative approaches are used to preserve bowel length. Overall, recovery is complicated in the short and long term. Major sequelae are stricture, short gut syndrome, and neurodevelopmental impairment. Resolving controversies in surgical necrotizing enterocolitis care requires multicenter collaboration for centralized data and tissue repositories, benchmarking, and carrying out prospective randomized controlled trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Benjamin D Carr
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, 1540 East Hospital Drive, SPC 4211, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA
| | - Samir K Gadepalli
- Section of Pediatric Surgery, Department of Surgery, C.S. Mott Children's Hospital, University of Michigan, 1540 East Hospital Drive, SPC 4211, Ann Arbor, MI 48108, USA.
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19
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Knell J, Han SM, Jaksic T, Modi BP. In Brief. Curr Probl Surg 2019. [DOI: 10.1067/j.cpsurg.2018.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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20
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Affiliation(s)
- Jamie Knell
- Center for Advanced Intestinal Rehabilitation, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Sam M Han
- Center for Advanced Intestinal Rehabilitation, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Tom Jaksic
- Center for Advanced Intestinal Rehabilitation, Department of Surgery, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA; Harvard Medical School, Center for Advanced Intestinal Rehabilitation, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA
| | - Biren P Modi
- Harvard Medical School, Center for Advanced Intestinal Rehabilitation, Boston Children's Hospital, Boston, MA.
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21
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Knell J, Han SM, Jaksic T, Modi BP. WITHDRAWN: In Brief. Curr Probl Surg 2018. [DOI: 10.1067/j.cpsurg.2018.12.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
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22
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Physical examination score predicts need for surgery in neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis. J Perinatol 2018; 38:1644-1650. [PMID: 30337731 DOI: 10.1038/s41372-018-0245-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 08/27/2018] [Accepted: 09/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To evaluate the utility of a standardized physical exam score (PE-NEC) in predicting need for surgery or death in neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC). METHODS This prospective, multicenter, observational study was conducted from 3/1/14 to 2/29/16 with three regional perinatal centers in upstate New York. Infants with NEC Bell's Stage ≥ 2 had physical exams and laboratory data recorded at 12-24 h intervals for 48 h following diagnosis. PE-NEC score was comprised of seven components: bowel sounds, capillary refill time, abdominal wall erythema, girth, discoloration, induration, and tenderness. Surgical timing was determined by surgeons blinded to the PE-NEC score. Optimal sensitivity and specificity of PE-NEC score for surgery/death (primary outcome) was determined by receiver operating characteristic curve analysis. RESULTS Of 100 infants with NEC, 5 had pneumoperitoneum at diagnosis and were excluded yielding 95 for analyses. Of those, 35 infants experienced the primary outcome: 3 died from NEC prior to surgery and 32 had surgery (30 laparotomies, 2 drains). The PE-NEC score was found to be sensitive and specific for need for surgery/death (AUC = 0.89, 95% CI 0.82-0.97); a score of ≥3 had a sensitivity of 0.88 (95% CI 0.72-0.97), specificity of 0.81 (95% CI 0.69-0.90). All components of the PE-NEC score were more likely to be present among infants with surgical NEC or who died. CONCLUSION PE-NEC score is sensitive and specific in predicting need for surgery in infants with NEC and should be validated as a clinical decision-making tool.
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23
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Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) continues to afflict approximately 7% of preterm infants born weighing less than 1500g, though recent investigations have provided novel insights into the pathogenesis of this complex disease. The disease has been a major cause of morbidity and mortality in neonatal intensive care units worldwide for many years, and our current understanding reflects exceptional observations made decades ago. In this review, we will describe NEC from a historical context and summarize seminal findings that underscore the importance of enteral feeding, the gut microbiota, and intestinal inflammation in this complex pathophysiology.
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Affiliation(s)
- David Hackam
- Division of Pediatric General Surgery, Department of Surgery, Johns Hopkins Children's Center and The Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD.
| | - Michael Caplan
- North Shore University Health System and the University of Chicago Pritzker School of Medicine
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24
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Gan X, Li J. [Research advances in necrotizing enterocolitis in neonates]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2018; 20:164-168. [PMID: 29429468 PMCID: PMC7389245 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2018.02.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2017] [Accepted: 01/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a catastrophic disease caused by a variety of factors in neonates, especially preterm infants. Severe NEC has a high fatality rate, and most survivors may face short- and long-term adverse prognosis. Risk factors for NEC include preterm birth, non-breastfeeding, microbial abnormalities in the digestive tract, and ischemia-reperfusion injury. High-resolution abdominal ultrasound helps with the early diagnosis of NEC. The preventive measures for NEC include protecting the intestinal mucosa through nutritional intervention, interfering with intestinal injury signals, changing intestinal microflora, and performing early minimal enteral nutrition. This disease progresses rapidly, and there are still no effective measures. Supportive care is mainly used for the treatment of this disease, and patients in severe conditions may need surgical treatment. Celastrol, lipopolysaccharide, and fecal transplantation help with the treatment of NEC, but further studies are needed to confirm their clinical effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xin Gan
- Department of Pediatrics, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang 110004, China.
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25
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Mϋller MJ, Paul T, Seeliger S. Necrotizing enterocolitis in premature infants and newborns. J Neonatal Perinatal Med 2017; 9:233-42. [PMID: 27589549 DOI: 10.3233/npm-16915130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the most common acquired disease of the gastrointestinal tract (GIT) in premature infants and newborns. It is defined as an ulcerative inflammation of the intestinal wall. The clinical signs of incipient NEC are often very discrete, and range from localized intestinal symptoms to generalized signs of sepsis. NEC is classified depending on its severity into disease states according to the modified Bell's Classification. Treatment of NEC ranges, depending on its severity, from a conservative therapeutic approach to surgery with resection of the affected parts of the intestine. Mortality is considerably high in extremely small preterm infants reaching up to 42% of the affected children. Measures such as breastfeeding or alternatively nutrition with pasteurized human donor milk from a milk bank, administration of probiotics, avoidance of histamine type II receptor antagonists, and restrictive antibiotic treatment should be considered early on for prevention of NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
- M J Mϋller
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Center Georg August University Göttingen, Germany
| | - T Paul
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Center Georg August University Göttingen, Germany
| | - S Seeliger
- Department of Pediatric Cardiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical Center Georg August University Göttingen, Germany.,St. Elisabeth Children's Hospital, Neuburg/Donau, Germany
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26
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White JR, Gong H, Pope B, Schlievert P, McElroy SJ. Paneth-cell-disruption-induced necrotizing enterocolitis in mice requires live bacteria and occurs independently of TLR4 signaling. Dis Model Mech 2017; 10:727-736. [PMID: 28450472 PMCID: PMC5483007 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.028589] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2016] [Accepted: 04/07/2017] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in premature infants. Both human surgical specimens and animal models suggest a potential involvement of Paneth cells in NEC pathogenesis. Paneth cells play critical roles in epithelial homeostasis, innate immunity and host-microbial interactions. Yet, the complex interplay between Paneth cell disruption, epithelial barrier dysfunction and microbial-driven inflammation remains unclear in the immature intestine. In this study, mucosal intestinal injury consistent with human NEC was induced in postnatal day 14-16 (P14-P16) mice by disrupting Paneth cells, followed by gavage with Klebsiella pneumonia. Mucosal injury was determined by histology, serum cytokine levels and epithelial barrier dysfunction. Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) activation was examined using protein expression, gene expression, and TLR4−/− mice. Finally, the role of bacteria was evaluated using heat-killed bacteria, conditioned media, Bacillus cereus and cecal slurries. We found that live bacteria were required to induce injury; however, TLR4 activation was not required. NEC induced by Paneth cell disruption results in altered localization of tight junction proteins and subsequent loss of barrier function. Prior research has shown a requirement for TLR4 activation to induce NEC-like damage. However, many infants develop NEC in the absence of Gram-negative rod bacteremia, raising the possibility that alternative pathways to intestinal injury exist. In this study, we show a previously unknown mechanism for the development of intestinal injury equivalent to that seen in human NEC and that is not dependent on TLR4 pathways. These data are congruent with the new hypothesis that NEC may be the consequence of several disease processes ending in a final common inflammatory pathway. Summary: Paneth cell disruption and bacterial exposure in immature murine intestine induces NEC-like pathology. Importantly, this occurs independently of TLR4 activation, presenting an alternative mechanism for disease development.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Huiyu Gong
- Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 54424, USA
| | - Brock Pope
- Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA 54424, USA
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27
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Shulhan J, Dicken B, Hartling L, Larsen BM. Current Knowledge of Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Preterm Infants and the Impact of Different Types of Enteral Nutrition Products. Adv Nutr 2017; 8:80-91. [PMID: 28096129 PMCID: PMC5227976 DOI: 10.3945/an.116.013193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022] Open
Abstract
Preterm infants are extremely vulnerable to a range of morbidities and mortality. Underdeveloped cardiac, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and immune systems in the preterm period increase the risk of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a serious disease of the gut. NEC affects 5-12% of very-low birth-weight infants, leads to surgery in 20-40% of cases, and is fatal in 25-50% of cases. There are multiple factors that may contribute to NEC, but the exact cause is not yet fully understood. Severe cases can result in intestinal resection or death, and the health care costs average >$300,000/infant when surgical management is required. Different types of nutrition may affect the onset or progression of NEC. Several studies have indicated that bovine milk-based infant formulas lead to a higher incidence of NEC in preterm infants than does human milk (HM). However, it is not clear why HM is linked to a lower incidence of NEC or why some infants fed an exclusively HM diet still develop NEC. An area that has not been thoroughly explored is the use of semielemental or elemental formulas. These specialty formulas are easy to digest and absorb in the gut and may be an effective nutritional intervention for reducing the risk of NEC. This review summarizes what is known about the factors that contribute to the onset and progression of NEC, discusses its health care cost implications, and explores the impact that different formulas and HM have on this disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jocelyn Shulhan
- Departments of Pediatrics and
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Bryan Dicken
- Surgery, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, and
- Stollery Children's Hospital, Edmonton, Canada; and
| | - Lisa Hartling
- Departments of Pediatrics and
- Alberta Research Centre for Health Evidence, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
| | - Bodil Mk Larsen
- Departments of Pediatrics and
- Stollery Children's Hospital, Edmonton, Canada; and
- Nutrition Services, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Canada
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28
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García-González M, Pita-Fernández S, Caramés-Bouzán J. [Analysis of population characteristics of infants affected by necrotizing enterocolitis in a tertiary centre in the last 12 years]. CIR CIR 2016; 85:411-418. [PMID: 27955855 DOI: 10.1016/j.circir.2016.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2016] [Accepted: 10/25/2016] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Necrotizing enterocolitis is the most lethal gastrointestinal emergency in the neonatal period. Incidence and mortality have remained stable in recent years despite advances in neonatal intensive care. The aim of this study is to show the general characteristics of patients diagnosed with necrotizing enterocolitis at Teresa Herrera's Hospital (La Coruna, Spain) in the last 12years. MATERIAL AND METHODS This study makes a retrospective and prospective descriptive analysis, evaluating the medical records and collecting radiological demographic variables, gestational data, perinatal history, clinical, analytical and perinatal therapeutic management and events in patients diagnosed with and treated for necrotizing enterocolitis between 2003 and 2015. RESULTS A total of 124 patients met the criteria for inclusion in the study. The mean gestational age of our patients was 33 weeks and remained stable compared with other studies. The average weight of our patients was 1,873g. In our series of cases there was a progressive and significant increase in maternal age and the rate of artificial pregnancies and multiple births. In our series 38.7% of our patients required surgical treatment and the fatality rate was 11.4%. DISCUSSION Despite advances in pre- and perinatal care necrotizing enterocolitis represents the leading cause of premature mortality. Incidence has remained unchanged in recent decades. More studies are required to identify both, risk and protective factors to reduce the morbidity and mortality of this entity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Miriam García-González
- Servicio de Cirugía Pediátrica, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña, A Coruña, España.
| | - Salvador Pita-Fernández
- Unidad de Epidemiología Clínica y Bioestadística, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña, A Coruña, España
| | - Jesús Caramés-Bouzán
- Servicio de Cirugía Pediátrica, Complejo Hospitalario Universitario de A Coruña, A Coruña, España
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29
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Application of Mitomycin C after dilation of an anastomotic stricture in a newborn with necrotizing enterocolitis. JOURNAL OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY CASE REPORTS 2016. [DOI: 10.1016/j.epsc.2015.12.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
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30
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McElroy SJ. The Role of Bacteria in Necrotizing Enterocolitis: Understanding the Forest for the Trees. Neonatology 2015; 108:196-7. [PMID: 26278707 DOI: 10.1159/000437205] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2015] [Accepted: 06/24/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Steven J McElroy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, Iowa, USA
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31
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Choi YY. Necrotizing enterocolitis in newborns: update in pathophysiology and newly emerging therapeutic strategies. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2014; 57:505-13. [PMID: 25653683 PMCID: PMC4316593 DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2014.57.12.505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/25/2014] [Accepted: 10/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
While the survival of extremely premature infants with respiratory distress syndrome has increased due to advanced respiratory care in recent years, necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) remains the leading cause of neonatal mortality and morbidity. NEC is more prevalent in lower gestational age and lower birth weight groups. It is characterized by various degrees of mucosal or transmural necrosis of the intestine. Its exact pathogenesis remains unclear, but prematurity, enteral feeding, bacterial products, and intestinal ischemia have all been shown to cause activation of the inflammatory cascade, which is known as the final common pathway of intestinal injury. Awareness of the risk factors for NEC; practices to reduce the risk, including early trophic feeding with breast milk and following the established feeding guidelines; and administration of probiotics have been shown to reduce the incidence of NEC. Despite advancements in the knowledge and understanding of the pathophysiology of NEC, there is currently no universal prevention measure for this serious and often fatal disease. Therefore, new potential techniques to detect early biomarkers or factors specific to intestinal inflammation, as well as further strategies to prevent the activation of the inflammatory cascade, which is important for disease progression, should be investigated.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Youn Choi
- Department of Pediatrics, Chonnam National University Hospital, Chonnam National University Medical School, Gwangju, Korea
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32
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Affiliation(s)
- S J McElroy
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Iowa, Iowa City, IA, USA
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33
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Sho S, Neal MD, Sperry J, Hackam DJ. A novel scoring system to predict the development of necrotizing enterocolitis totalis in premature infants. J Pediatr Surg 2014; 49:1053-6. [PMID: 24952787 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2013.10.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2013] [Revised: 09/27/2013] [Accepted: 10/28/2013] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND/PURPOSE Necrotizing enterocolitis totalis (NEC-totalis) is the severest form of NEC, with mortality rate of almost 100% even in the busiest neonatal centers. Despite such a prognosis, its risk factors remain elusive. We seek to identify clinical and laboratory parameters that differentiate NEC-totalis from NEC, and to use these factors to develop a scoring system to identify patients at risk for NEC-totalis upon presentation. METHOD NEC patients were identified from our electronic medical record using ICD9 code. Diagnosis of NEC-totalis was based on operative and autopsy reports. Patients were divided into 2 groups: NEC-but-no-totalis and NEC-totalis. Clinical/laboratory data were obtained for each group. T-test, multivariate logistic regression and backward stepwise regression analysis were performed to identify risk factors for NEC-totalis and these risk factors were formulated into a "Totalis Score." RESULT Among 157 NEC patients, 13 had NEC-totalis. NEC-totalis patients, compared to NEC alone, had fewer platelets, older age at diagnosis of NEC and greater phosphorus and creatinine levels. A 0-5 point scale "Totalis Score" based on these risk factors had sensitivity of 92% and a specificity of 78% for the diagnosis of NEC-totalis. CONCLUSION Low platelet, high phosphorus, high creatinine and older age at diagnosis of NEC were associated with a greater risk of developing NEC-totalis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shonan Sho
- Division of Pediatric Surgery Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224; Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224
| | - Matthew D Neal
- Division of Pediatric Surgery Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224; Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224
| | - Jason Sperry
- Division of Pediatric Surgery Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224; Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224
| | - David J Hackam
- Division of Pediatric Surgery Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224; Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, PA, 15224.
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Lu P, Sodhi CP, Jia H, Shaffiey S, Good M, Branca MF, Hackam DJ. Animal models of gastrointestinal and liver diseases. Animal models of necrotizing enterocolitis: pathophysiology, translational relevance, and challenges. Am J Physiol Gastrointest Liver Physiol 2014; 306:G917-28. [PMID: 24763555 PMCID: PMC4042110 DOI: 10.1152/ajpgi.00422.2013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 72] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023]
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality from gastrointestinal disease in premature infants and is characterized by initial feeding intolerance and abdominal distention followed by the rapid progression to coagulation necrosis of the intestine and death in many cases. Although the risk factors for NEC development remain well accepted, namely premature birth and formula feeding, the underlying mechanisms remain incompletely understood. Current thinking indicates that NEC develops in response to an abnormal interaction between the mucosal immune system of the premature host and an abnormal indigenous microflora, leading to an exaggerated mucosal inflammatory response and impaired mesenteric perfusion. In seeking to understand the molecular and cellular events leading to NEC, various animal models have been developed. However, the large number and variability between the available animal models and the unique characteristics of each has raised important questions regarding the validity of particular models for NEC research. In an attempt to provide some guidance to the growing community of NEC researchers, we now seek to review the key features of the major NEC models that have been developed in mammalian and nonmammalian species and to assess the advantages, disadvantage, challenges and major scientific discoveries yielded by each. A strategy for model validation is proposed, the principal models are compared, and future directions and challenges within the field of NEC research are explored.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peng Lu
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
| | - Chhinder P. Sodhi
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
| | - Hongpeng Jia
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
| | - Shahab Shaffiey
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
| | - Misty Good
- 3Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Maria F. Branca
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
| | - David J. Hackam
- 1Department of Surgery, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; ,2Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh of UPMC, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania;
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Probiotics and prebiotics in neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis: New opportunities for translational research. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2014; 21:35-46. [PMID: 24594006 DOI: 10.1016/j.pathophys.2013.11.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature infants has been recognized as a defined disease entity for at least four decades. Although survival has increased due to the advent of more sophisticated intensive care, incidence and long term health impacts due to NEC remain unchanged and no preventive therapy is currently available. Different probiotic strains of bacteria have been examined in their ability to prevent NEC with varied but encouraging results. Undigestable prebiotic sugars known to promote the growth of probiotic bacteria in the colon have been used in neonates with no clear benefit. The literature on NEC and probiotics is now cluttered with more reviews and meta-analyses than number of clinical trials. On the other hand, significant new information is available on microbiota and their impact on gut immunity. This review attempts to reiterate the risk factors of NEC and the pathogenesis of NEC with special reference to gut permeability. The reader is then introduced to gut microbiota, uniqueness and differences among probiotic strains, and how multiple resident flora talk to each other in the community setting in the human gut. After presenting a concise review of available clinical research results, the reader is challenged to question as to why no precise answer is available at present. Some modalities to examine the complex microflora and changes in the neonatal gut are then proposed including non-invasive methods and mathematical modeling. The review concludes by attracting the reader's attention to known immunomodulators of inflammation and injury. Justice to this review will be done only if the readers, clinical, and basic science investigators from multiple fields gather courage for a paradigm shift and embark on understanding the pathophysiology of the disease and attempt to discern the difference from equally preterm, equally vulnerable neonates that do not develop NEC. Learning about the developing microbiota in neonatal gut and its immunological impacts on the host in the face of many variables will provide a leap in our pursuit to select better, if not the best candidate probiotics, and put them to work against this stubborn disease that continues to take a toll on our precious neonates and the society.
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Gordon PV, Swanson JR. Necrotizing enterocolitis is one disease with many origins and potential means of prevention. PATHOPHYSIOLOGY 2014; 21:13-9. [DOI: 10.1016/j.pathophys.2013.11.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
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Abstract
Necrotising enterocolitis is a serious disorder in preterm infants with a mortality of up to 60%. Therefore, early and precise diagnosis and rapid initiation of proper treatment are essential. Clinically suspected diagnosis is usually confirmed by typical findings on plain abdominal radiograph, for example, pneumatosis intestinalis, portal venous gas and, in case of intestinal perforation, pneumoperitoneum. Recently, there has been growing evidence that with real-time ultrasound, intramural air and portal gas can be better detected than with x-ray. Furthermore, ultrasound is able to assess the bowel wall directly and detect bowel wall thickening or thinning, reduced peristalsis or disturbed bowel wall perfusion. Intra-abdominal fluid, both intraluminal or extraluminal is also visible. However, data regarding the diagnostic validity and prognostic value of abdominal ultrasound are limited and often focused on a single finding rather than a combination of them. Additionally, until now, ultrasound findings seem to have little influence on therapeutic decisions. Therefore, the value of abdominal ultrasound in the diagnosis of necrotising enterocolitis has to be determined by further studies until its use can be generally recommended.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bettina Bohnhorst
- Department of Pediatric Pulmonology, Allergology and Neonatology, Hannover Medical School, Germany.
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Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) primarily affects premature infants. It is less common in term and late preterm infants. The age of onset is inversely related to the postmenstrual age at birth. In term infants, NEC is commonly associated with congenital heart diseases. NEC has also been associated with other anomalies. More than 85% of all NEC cases occur in very low birth weight infants or in very premature infants. Despite incremental advances in our understanding of the clinical presentation and pathophysiology of NEC, universal prevention of this disease continues to elude us even in the twenty-first century.
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MESH Headings
- Age of Onset
- Disease Management
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/diagnosis
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/epidemiology
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/therapy
- Humans
- Infant, Newborn
- Infant, Premature/physiology
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/diagnosis
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/epidemiology
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/therapy
- Intestinal Perforation/diagnosis
- Intestines/diagnostic imaging
- Intestines/microbiology
- Intestines/physiopathology
- Pneumoperitoneum/diagnosis
- Prevalence
- Radiography
- Risk
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Affiliation(s)
- Renu Sharma
- Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Florida College of Medicine at Jacksonville, 655 West 8th Street, Jacksonville, FL 32209, USA.
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Papillon S, Castle SL, Gayer CP, Ford HR. Necrotizing enterocolitis: contemporary management and outcomes. Adv Pediatr 2013; 60:263-79. [PMID: 24007848 DOI: 10.1016/j.yapd.2013.04.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Stephanie Papillon
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital Los Angeles, Keck School of Medicine, University of Southern California, 4650 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA 90027, USA
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Zhang C, Sherman MP, Prince LS, Bader D, Weitkamp JH, Slaughter JC, McElroy SJ. Paneth cell ablation in the presence of Klebsiella pneumoniae induces necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC)-like injury in the small intestine of immature mice. Dis Model Mech 2012; 5:522-32. [PMID: 22328592 PMCID: PMC3380715 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.009001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 82] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in premature infants. During NEC pathogenesis, bacteria are able to penetrate innate immune defenses and invade the intestinal epithelial layer, causing subsequent inflammation and tissue necrosis. Normally, Paneth cells appear in the intestinal crypts during the first trimester of human pregnancy. Paneth cells constitute a major component of the innate immune system by producing multiple antimicrobial peptides and proinflammatory mediators. To better understand the possible role of Paneth cell disruption in NEC, we quantified the number of Paneth cells present in infants with NEC and found that they were significantly decreased compared with age-matched controls. We were able to model this loss in the intestine of postnatal day (P)14-P16 (immature) mice by treating them with the zinc chelator dithizone. Intestines from dithizone-treated animals retained approximately half the number of Paneth cells compared with controls. Furthermore, by combining dithizone treatment with exposure to Klebsiella pneumoniae, we were able to induce intestinal injury and inflammatory induction that resembles human NEC. Additionally, this novel Paneth cell ablation model produces NEC-like pathology that is consistent with other currently used animal models, but this technique is simpler to use, can be used in older animals that have been dam fed, and represents a novel line of investigation to study NEC pathogenesis and treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chunxian Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University School of Medicine, Nashville, TN 37232, USA
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Lin J, Hackam DJ. Worms, flies and four-legged friends: the applicability of biological models to the understanding of intestinal inflammatory diseases. Dis Model Mech 2011; 4:447-56. [PMID: 21669933 PMCID: PMC3124049 DOI: 10.1242/dmm.007252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Diseases of intestinal inflammation, including Crohn's disease, ulcerative colitis and necrotizing enterocolitis, cause substantial acute and chronic disability in a large proportion of the population. Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, which are collectively referred to as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), lead to recurrent episodes of intestinal dysfunction and systemic illness, whereas necrotizing enterocolitis is characterized by the development of dramatic and all too often fatal intestinal necrosis in infants. To determine the molecular underpinnings of these disorders, investigators have explored a variety of animal models that vary widely in their complexity. These experimental systems include the invertebrate nematode Caenorhabditis elegans, the more complex invertebrate Drosophila melanogaster, and vertebrate systems including mice, rats and other mammals. This review explores the experimental models that are used to mimic and evaluate the pathogenic mechanisms leading to these diseases of intestinal inflammation. We then highlight, as an example, how the use of different experimental models that focus on the role of Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR4) signaling in the gut has revealed important distinctions between the pathogenesis of IBD and necrotizing enterocolitis. Specifically, TLR4-mediated signaling plays a protective role in the development of Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis, whereas this signaling pathway plays a causative role in the development of necrotizing enterocolitis in the newborn small intestine by adversely affecting intestinal injury and repair mechanisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Lin
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, USA
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42
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Afrazi A, Sodhi CP, Richardson W, Neal M, Good M, Siggers R, Hackam DJ. New insights into the pathogenesis and treatment of necrotizing enterocolitis: Toll-like receptors and beyond. Pediatr Res 2011; 69:183-8. [PMID: 21135755 PMCID: PMC3125129 DOI: 10.1203/pdr.0b013e3182093280] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) is the leading cause of death from gastrointestinal disease in the preterm infant. The dismal results of current treatment for NEC highlight the urgent need for greater understanding of the pathogenesis of this disease, and the importance of discovering novel, molecular-specific therapies for it. Current dogma indicates that NEC development reflects an abnormal response by the premature infant to the microbial flora that colonizes the gastrointestinal tract, although the mechanisms that mediate these abnormal bacterial-enterocyte interactions and the reasons for the particularly increased susceptibility of the premature infant to the development of NEC remain incompletely explained. Recent evidence has shed light on an emerging role for the Toll-like receptors (TLRs) of the innate immune system as central players in the pathways that signal in response to enteric bacteria resulting in the development of NEC. We now review recent advances in the field of NEC and identify several exciting potential avenues for novel treatments by focusing on abnormal TLR4 signaling in the premature intestine in the pathogenesis of NEC. In so doing, we seek to offer new hope to the patients and their families who are affected by this devastating disorder.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/immunology
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/microbiology
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/pathology
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/therapy
- Enterocytes/immunology
- Enterocytes/metabolism
- Enterocytes/microbiology
- Gastrointestinal Tract/metabolism
- Gastrointestinal Tract/microbiology
- Gastrointestinal Tract/pathology
- Humans
- Immunity, Innate
- Infant, Newborn/immunology
- Infant, Premature/immunology
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/immunology
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/microbiology
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/pathology
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/therapy
- Intestinal Mucosa/metabolism
- Intestinal Mucosa/microbiology
- Intestinal Mucosa/pathology
- Signal Transduction/physiology
- Toll-Like Receptors/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- Amin Afrazi
- Department of Surgery, Children's Hospital of Pittsburgh, University of Pittsburgh School of Medicine, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15224, USA
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43
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Abboud B, El Hachem J, Yazbeck T, Doumit C, Hechtman HB. Hepatic portal venous gas: Physiopathology, etiology, prognosis and treatment. World J Gastroenterol 2009; 15:3585-90. [PMID: 19653334 PMCID: PMC2721230 DOI: 10.3748/wjg.15.3585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Hepatic portal venous gas (HPVG), an ominous radiologic sign, is associated in some cases with a severe underlying abdominal disease requiring urgent operative intervention. HPVG has been reported with increasing frequency in medical literature and usually accompanies severe or lethal conditions. The diagnosis of HPVG is usually made by plain abdominal radiography, sonography, color Doppler flow imaging or computed tomography (CT) scan. Currently, the increased use of CT scan and ultrasound in the inpatient setting allows early and highly sensitive detection of such severe illnesses and also the recognition of an increasing number of benign and non-life threatening causes of HPVG. HPVG is not by itself a surgical indication and the treatment depends mainly on the underlying disease. The prognosis is related to the pathology itself and is not influenced by the presence of HPVG. Based on a review of the literature, we discuss in this paper the pathophysiology, risk factors, radiographic findings, management, and prognosis of pathologies associated with HPVG.
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Diesen DL, Skinner MA. Spontaneous sealing of a neonatal intestinal perforation by the omentum. J Pediatr Surg 2008; 43:2308-10. [PMID: 19040962 DOI: 10.1016/j.jpedsurg.2008.08.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2008] [Revised: 08/19/2008] [Accepted: 08/20/2008] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Several recent reports have suggested that, in select premature neonates, intestinal perforation may be managed by peritoneal drainage alone. Much like a surgical Graham patch, the omentum may seal an intestinal perforation allowing healing while maintaining bowel continuity. This photograph, illustrating a classic case of spontaneous sealing of such a perforation, demonstrates why surgery may be avoided in some cases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Diana L Diesen
- Department of Surgery, Duke University Medical Center, Box 3815, Durham, NC 277710, USA.
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45
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Abstract
Neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis is the second most common cause of morbidity in premature infants and requires intensive care over an extended period. Despite advances in medical and surgical techniques, the mortality and long-term morbidity due to necrotizing enterocolitis remain very high. Recent advances have shifted the attention of researchers from the classic triad (ischemia, bacteria, and the introduction of a metabolic substrate into the intestine) of necrotizing enterocolitis, to gut maturation, feeding practices, and inflammation. The focus on inflammation includes proinflammatory cytokines such as tumor necrosis factor-alpha, interleukin (IL)-6, IL-18, and platelet-activating factor. Research related to the etiology of necrotizing enterocolitis has moved quickly from clostridial toxin to bacterial and other infectious agents. More recently, the pattern of bacterial colonization has been given emphasis rather than the particular species or strain of bacteria or their virulence. Gram-negative bacteria that form part of the normal flora are now speculated as important factors in triggering the injury process in a setting where there is a severe paucity of bacterial species and possible lack of protective Gram-positive organisms. Although the incidence of necrotizing enterocolitis has increased because of the survival of low birthweight infants, clinicians are more vigilant in their detection of the early gastrointestinal symptoms of necrotizing enterocolitis; however, radiographic demonstration of pneumatosis intestinalis remains the hallmark of necrotizing enterocolitis. With prompt diagnosis, a large proportion of infants with necrotizing enterocolitis are now able to be managed medically with intravenous fluid and nutrition, nasogastric suction, antibacterials, and close monitoring of physiologic parameters. In the advanced cases that require surgery, clinicians tend to opt for either simple peritoneal drainage (for very small and sick infants) or laparotomy and resection of the affected part. Intestinal transplantation later in life is available as a viable option for those who undergo resection of large segments of the intestine. It is becoming more evident that treatment of this devastating disease is expensive and comes with the toll of significant long-term sequelae. This has resulted in renewed interest in designing alternative strategies to prevent this serious gastrointestinal disease. Simple trophic feeding and the use of L-glutamine and arginine are novel avenues that have been examined. The use of probiotics ('friendly' bacterial flora) has been introduced as a promising tool for establishing healthy bacterial flora in the newborn gut to block the injury process that may ultimately lead to necrotizing enterocolitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pinaki Panigrahi
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, USA.
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Abstract
Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC), a syndrome characterized by crepitant necrosis of the bowel, has emerged as the most common neonatal gastrointestinal emergency in many countries of the world. In the United States, NEC strikes 1 to 8% of patients admitted to neonatal intensive care units, almost all of whom are premature infants. The incidence is low in certain countries wity a low premature birth rate, e.g., Japan. Two theories of pathogenesis are: the Santulli theory, which implicates three factors: ischaemia, bacteria and substrate; and the Lawrence theory, which stresses the injurious role of bacterial toxins on the immature gut of the preterm infant. Clinical and experimental evidence support each of the theories, but neither theory can explain certain clinical phenomena, particularly the resistance to NEC manifested by more than 90% of preterm infants, who never develop the syndrome. A unifying hypothesis of pathogenesis and a mathematical model of NEC are outlined. Because clustering of cases may occur, the design of clinical trials of preventive measures for NEC must include simultaneous control infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann M Kosloske
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio, USA
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Cowles RA, Schullinger JN, Berdon WE. Thomas Vincent Santulli: a central figure in the development of pediatric surgery in New York City. Surgery 2006; 140:113-7. [PMID: 16857449 DOI: 10.1016/j.surg.2006.01.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2005] [Revised: 12/22/2005] [Accepted: 01/13/2006] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Robert A Cowles
- Division of Pediatric Surgery, Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, Columbia University Medical Center and Morgan Stanley Children's Hospital of New York, Presbyterian, USA.
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48
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49
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Jeoung YM, Je HG, Son SH. Risk factors and clinical characteristics of necrotizing enterocolitis in full-term newborns. KOREAN JOURNAL OF PEDIATRICS 2006. [DOI: 10.3345/kjp.2006.49.5.489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Young Mi Jeoung
- Department of Pediatrics, Il Sin Christian Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Hyun Gon Je
- Department of Pediatrics, Il Sin Christian Hospital, Busan, Korea
| | - Sang Hee Son
- Department of Pediatrics, Il Sin Christian Hospital, Busan, Korea
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50
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Abstract
The diagnosis of neonatal necrotizing enterocolitis is one of great concern to pediatric and neonatal clinicians. Intravenous access remains an integral part of the medical and surgical management of infants with this diagnosis, and the infusion nurse is intimately involved in the care of these patients. This article discusses the definition of necrotizing enterocolitis, presents current knowledge regarding its basic pathophysiology, and identifies common and rare sequelae of this oftentimes devastating disease of premature infants. Medical and surgical management goals of therapy are described. This overview will aid the infusion nurse in caring for these patients.
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MESH Headings
- Colectomy
- Colostomy
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/diagnosis
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/epidemiology
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/etiology
- Enterocolitis, Necrotizing/therapy
- Fluid Therapy/methods
- Fluid Therapy/nursing
- Humans
- Incidence
- Infant Mortality
- Infant, Newborn
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/diagnosis
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/epidemiology
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/etiology
- Infant, Premature, Diseases/therapy
- Intensive Care Units, Neonatal
- Intensive Care, Neonatal/methods
- Intestinal Perforation/etiology
- Morbidity
- Neonatal Nursing/methods
- Prognosis
- Risk Factors
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Affiliation(s)
- Christian Con Yost
- Department of Pediatrics, Division of Neonatology University of Utah School of Medicine, Salt Lake City, Utah 84108, USA.
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