A new look at bronchopulmonary dysplasia: postcapillary pathophysiology and cardiac dysfunction

Longitudinal evaluation of hemodynamic blood and echocardiographic biomarkers for the prediction of BPD and BPD-related pulmonary hypertension in very-low-birth-weight preterm infants

Very-low-birth-weight infants (VLBW, < 1500 g) are at risk of developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) and are at risk for BPD-related pulmonary hypertension (PH). The longitudinal measurement of innovative blood and echocardiographic biomarkers might allow for a risk stratification of these infants. A prospective single-center cohort study was conducted between 01/2021 and 06/2023. Inclusion criteria were the combination of a birth weight < 1500 g and a gestational age (GA) ≤ 30/0 weeks. Assessment timepoints: T1 (day 7), T2 (day 28), and T3 (at 36 weeks post-menstrual age, PMA). Overall, 71 preterm infants were included for final analysis. The Zlog-transformed NTproBNPZlog (at T1 AUC 0.772; p = 0.019; at T2 AUC 0.874, p = 0.002), and endothelin-1 (ET1, at T1 AUC 0.789, p = 0.013) were identified as an early predictive biomarker for BPD/death in the univariate analysis. Additionally, echocardiographic markers of ventricular function and PH at T1 were predictive for BPD/death in the univariate analysis, with the highest predictivity found for the tricuspid annular plane systolic excursion-TAPSE (AUC 0.748, p = 0.016) and the pulmonary artery acceleration time to right ventricular ejection time (PAAT/RVET; AUC 0.744, p = 0.043). Regarding predictability of mortality alone NTroBNPZlog (at T1 AUC 0.973, p = 0.000), and CA125 (at T1 AUC 0.747, p = 0.008) were identified as potential predictors, as well as TAPSE (AUC 0.926, p = 0.000), and PAAT/RVET (AUC 0.985, p = 0.000) Several biomarkers including ET-1 (at T1 AUC 0.893, p = 0.000), TAPSE (AUC 0.974, p = 0.000), and PAAT/RVET (AUC 1.0, p = 0.000) at T1 were identified as univariate predictors for BPD-PH. In the multivariate analysis, no biomarker was identified as an independent predictor of the primary endpoint.

CONCLUSION

Mainly at an early stage of postnatal neonatal care in VLBW preterm infants, several biomarkers were found to be associated with the combined endpoint BPD/death and BPD-PH. New candidates of blood biomarkers (NTproBNPZlog, ET-1, and CA125) and echocardiographic markers (TAPSE, PAAT/RVET) might serve as innovative predictors for BPD, BPD-PH, and adverse outcomes in VBLW infants.

WHAT IS KNOWN

• VLBW infants are at risk for the development of BPD and BPD-related PH, which both are main contributors for short and long-term morbidity and mortality. Several studies in the past focused on the evaluation of circulating blood biomarkers and biomarkers from echocardiographic assessment of these infants. But to date, there is still a lack on longitudinal prospective studies especially in VLBW infants.

WHAT IS NEW

• For the first time, this set of selected blood biomarkers (with the first description of Zlog-transformed NTproBNP and CA125 in preterm infants) and several echocardiographic markers were analyzed in a prospective longitudinal study from birth until 36 weeks post menstrual age in VLBW infants. Our data help clinicians to identify preterm infants at risk for BPD, BPD-PH and death and to offer new candidates of biomarkers. This might help to facilitate decision making and guidance of therapy in these highly vulnerable patients.

Elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure, higher blood pressure, and lower cardiac index in infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia

BACKGROUND

Left ventricular diastolic dysfunction indicated by elevated pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (ePCWP) may worsen cardiorespiratory status in bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), but the scope of ePCWP by cardiac catheterization is not well described.

METHODS

This single-center retrospective cohort study included infants with BPD without congenital heart disease, significant intracardiac shunts, or pulmonary vein stenosis who underwent cardiac catheterization from 2010 to 2021. ePCWP was defined as >10 mmHg. Quantitative measures of ventricular systolic and diastolic function were performed on existing echocardiograms. Patients with and without ePCWP were compared using the Chi-squared or Wilcoxon rank-sum tests. Associations between catheterization hemodynamics and echocardiographic parameters were assessed by simple linear regression.

RESULTS

Seventy-one infants (93% Grade 2 or 3 BPD) met inclusion criteria, and 30 (42%) had ePCWP. Patients with ePCWP were older at catheterization (6.7 vs. 4.5 months, p < 0.001), more commonly underwent tracheostomy (66.7% vs. 29.3%, p = 0.003), and had higher mean systemic blood pressure [64.5 (56.0, 75.0) vs. 47.0 (43.0, 55.0) mm Hg, p < 0.001], higher systemic vascular resistance [11.9 (10.4, 15.6) vs. 8.7 (6.7, 11.2) WU*m2, p < 0.001), and lower cardiac index [3.9 (3.8, 4.9) vs. 4.7 (4.0, 6.3) L/min/m2, p = 0.03] at catheterization. Mean pulmonary artery pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance, and mortality were similar between the groups. Echocardiographic indices of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction did not correlate with PCWP.

CONCLUSIONS

ePCWP was common in infants with severe BPD who underwent cardiac catheterization in this cohort. The association between ePCWP and higher systemic blood pressure supports further study of afterload reduction in this population.

An interdisciplinary consensus approach to pulmonary hypertension in developmental lung disease

It is increasingly recognised that diverse genetic respiratory disorders present as severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) in the neonate and young infant, but many controversies and uncertainties persist regarding optimal strategies for diagnosis and management to maximise long-term outcomes. To better define the nature of PH in the setting of developmental lung disease (DEVLD), in addition to the common diagnoses of bronchopulmonary dysplasia and congenital diaphragmatic hernia, we established a multidisciplinary group of expert clinicians from stakeholder paediatric specialties to highlight current challenges and recommendations for clinical approaches, as well as counselling and support of families. In this review, we characterise clinical features of infants with DEVLD/DEVLD-PH and identify decision-making challenges including genetic evaluations, the role of lung biopsies, the use of imaging modalities and treatment approaches. The importance of working with team members from multiple disciplines, enhancing communication and providing sufficient counselling services for families is emphasised to create an interdisciplinary consensus.

Systemic hemodynamics and pediatric lung disease: mechanistic links and therapeutic relevance

Chronic lung disease, also known as bronchopulmonary dysplasia, affects thousands of infants worldwide each year. The impact on resources is second only to bronchial asthma, with lung function affected well into adolescence. Diagnostic and therapeutic constructs have almost exclusively focused on pulmonary architecture (alveoli/airways) and pulmonary hypertension. Information on systemic hemodynamics indicates major artery thickness/stiffness, elevated systemic afterload, and/or primary left ventricular dysfunction may play a part in a subset of infants with severe neonatal-pediatric lung disease. Understanding the underlying principles with attendant effectors would aid in identifying the pathophysiological course where systemic afterload reduction with angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors could become the preferred treatment strategy over conventional pulmonary artery vasodilatation.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Extremely preterm infants are at a higher risk of developing severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia. In a subset of infants, diuretic and pulmonary vasodilator therapy is ineffective. Recent information points toward systemic hemodynamic disease (systemic arterial stiffness and left ventricular dysfunction) as a contributor via back-pressure changes. Mechanistic links include heightened renin angiotensin aldosterone system activity, inflammation, and oxygen toxicity. Angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition may be operationally more suited compared with induced pulmonary artery vasodilatation.

Cardiovascular Sequelae of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia in Preterm Neonates Born before 32 Weeks of Gestational Age: Impact of Associated Pulmonary and Systemic Hypertension

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) remains the most common respiratory disorder of prematurity for infants born before 32 weeks of gestational age (GA). Early and prolonged exposure to chronic hypoxia and inflammation induces pulmonary hypertension (PH) with the characteristic features of a reduced number and increased muscularisation of the pulmonary arteries resulting in an increase in the pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR) and a fall in their compliance. BPD and BPD-associated pulmonary hypertension (BPD-PH) together with systemic hypertension (sHTN) are chronic cardiopulmonary disorders which result in an increased mortality and long-term problems for these infants. Previous studies have predominantly focused on the pulmonary circulation (right ventricle and its function) and developing management strategies accordingly for BPD-PH. However, recent work has drawn attention to the importance of the left-sided cardiac function and its impact on BPD in a subset of infants arising from a unique pathophysiology termed postcapillary PH. BPD infants may have a mechanistic link arising from chronic inflammation, cytokines, oxidative stress, catecholamines, and renin-angiotensin system activation along with systemic arterial stiffness, all of which contribute to the development of BPD-sHTN. The focus for the treatment of BPD-PH has been improvement of the right heart function through pulmonary vasodilators. BPD-sHTN and a subset of postcapillary PH may benefit from afterload reducing agents such as angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors. Preterm infants with BPD-PH are at risk of later cardiac and respiratory morbidities as young adults. This paper reviews the current knowledge of the pathophysiology, diagnosis, and treatment of BPD-PH and BPD-sHTN. Current knowledge gaps and emerging new therapies will also be discussed.

Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia-Associated Pulmonary Hypertension: Basing Care on Physiology

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the heterogeneous chronic lung developmental disease of prematurity, which is often accompanied by multisystem comorbidities. Pulmonary vascular disease and pulmonary hypertension (PH) contribute significantly to the pathogenesis and pathophysiology of BPD and dramatically influence the outcomes of preterm infants with BPD. When caring for those patients, clinicians should consider the multitude of phenotypic presentations that fall under the "BPD-PH umbrella," reflecting the need for matching therapies to specific physiologies to improve short- and long-term outcomes. Individualized management based on the patient's prenatal and postnatal risk factors, clinical course, and cardiopulmonary phenotype needs to be identified and prioritized to provide optimal care for infants with BPD-PH.

Echocardiography in the neonatal unit: current status and future prospects

INTRODUCTION

Traditionally echocardiography was used by pediatric cardiologists to diagnose congenital heart defects in neonates. Formalized neonatal hemodynamic fellowships have been established where neonatologists acquire advanced echocardiographic skills to gain anatomical, physiological, and hemodynamic information in real time and utilize this information in making a timely and accurate physiology-based clinical decision.

AREA COVERED

Differences between a comprehensive formal structural echocardiography, neonatologist performed targeted echocardiography and limited assessment on point-of-care-ultrasonography for specific indications have been covered. This article is focused at providing a comprehensive review of the status of echocardiography in the neonatal units, recent advancements and its future prospects in the neonatal intensive care units.

EXPERT OPINION

Comprehensive guidelines providing the scope of practice, a framework for training, and robust clinical governance process for the neonatologist performed targeted echocardiography have been established. In the last decade, echocardiography has emerged as essential vital bedside diagnostic tool in providing high-quality care to the sick infants in the neonatal units, and it has proved to improve the outcomes in neonates. It is now being considered as a modern hemodynamic monitoring tool. Advances in technology, machine learning, and application of artificial intelligence in applications of echocardiography seem promising adjunct tools for rapid assessment in emergency situations.

Targeted Neonatal Echocardiography in the Management of Neonatal Pulmonary Hypertension

Pulmonary hypertension (PH) in neonates, originating from a range of disease states with heterogeneous underlying pathophysiology, is associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although the final common pathway is a state of high right ventricular afterload leading to compromised cardiac output, multiple hemodynamic phenotypes exist in acute and chronic PH, for which cardiorespiratory treatment strategies differ. Comprehensive appraisal of pulmonary pressure, pulmonary vascular resistance, cardiac function, pulmonary and systemic blood flow, and extrapulmonary shunts facilitates delivery of individualized cardiovascular therapies in affected newborns.

Combining lung ultrasound and oscillatory mechanics for assessing lung disease in very preterm infants

BACKGROUND

We investigated whether combining lung ultrasound scores (LUSs) and respiratory system reactance (Xrs) measured by respiratory oscillometry explains the severity of lung disease better than individual parameters alone.

METHODS

We performed a prospective observational study in very preterm infants. Forced oscillations (10 Hz) were applied using a neonatal mechanical ventilator (Fabian HFOi, Vyaire). We used the simultaneous respiratory severity score (RSS = mean airway pressure × FIO2) as a primary outcome. We built linear mixed-effect models to assess the relationship between Xrs z-score, LUS and RSS and compared nested models using the likelihood ratio test (LRT).

RESULTS

We enrolled 61 infants (median (Q1, Q3) gestational age = 30.00 (26.86, 31.00) weeks) and performed 243 measurements at a postnatal age of 26 (13, 41) days and postmenstrual age of 33.14 (30.46, 35.86) weeks. Xrs z-score and LUS were independently associated with simultaneous RSS (p < 0.001 for both). The model including Xrs and LUS explained the RSS significantly better than Xrs (p value LRT < 0.001) or LUS alone (p value LRT < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Combining LUS and Xrs z-score explains the severity of lung disease better than each parameter alone and has the potential to improve the understanding of the underlying pathophysiology.

IMPACT

Combining respiratory system reactance by oscillometry and lung ultrasound score explains the respiratory support requirement (e.g., proxy of the severity of lung disease) significantly better than each parameter alone. We assessed the relationship between lung ultrasound and respiratory system reactance in very preterm infants for the first time. Combining respiratory oscillometry and lung ultrasound has the potential to improve the understanding of respiratory pathophysiology.

Echocardiography Assessment of Left Ventricular Function in Extremely Preterm Infants, Born at Less Than 28 Weeks' Gestation, With Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia and Systemic Hypertension

BACKGROUND

The survival of smaller and more immature premature infants has been associated with lifelong cardiorespiratory comorbidities. Infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) undergo routine screening echocardiography to evaluate for development of chronic pulmonary hypertension, a late manifestation of pulmonary vascular disease.

METHODS

Our aim was to evaluate left ventricular (LV) performance in infants with BPD and pulmonary vascular disease who developed systemic hypertension. We hypothesized that infants with hypertension were more likely to have impaired LV performance. We present a single-center cross-sectional study of premature infants born at less than 28 0/7 weeks' gestational age with a clinical diagnosis of BPD. Infants were categorized by the systolic arterial pressure (SAP) at time of echocardiography as hypertensive (SAP ≥90 mm Hg) or normotensive (SAP <90 mm Hg). Sixty-four patients were included.

RESULTS

Infants with hypertension showed altered LV diastolic function with prolonged tissue Doppler imaging-derived isovolumic relaxation time (54.2 ± 5.1 vs 42.9 ± 8.2, P < .001), lower E:A, and higher E:e'. Indices of left heart volume/pressure loading (left atrium:aorta and LV end-diastolic volume [6.1 ± 2 vs 4.2 ± 1.2, P < .001]) were also higher in the hypertensive group. Finally, infants in the hypertensive group had higher pulmonary vascular resistance index (4.42 ± 1.1 vs 3.69 ± 0.8, P = .004).

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that extremely preterm infants with BPD who develop systemic hypertension are at risk of abnormal LV diastolic dysfunction. Increased pulmonary vascular resistance index in the hypertensive group may relate to pulmonary venous hypertension secondary to LV dysfunction. This is an important consideration in this cohort when selecting the physiologically most appropriate treatment.

Echocardiography algorithms to assess high left atrial pressure and grade diastolic function in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Relaxation, restoring forces, myocardial stiffness and atrial function determine left ventricular (LV) diastolic function. This study aims to provide a comprehensive assessment of diastolic function in preterm infants using conventional echocardiography and speckle tracking imaging and determine the diagnostic accuracy of various algorithms to detect high left atrial pressure (LAP).

METHODS

Preterm infants received an echocardiogram 1 week after birth and diastolic reference values were derived from the outer percentiles of stable preterm infants. Impaired relaxation, LV stiffness and high LAP were defined by using algorithms where at least half of the parameters were outside the normal range. Diastolic function was graded using the 2016 American Society of Echocardiography algorithm and expanded with the EA ratio and left atrial strain. The diagnostic accuracy of various algorithms to detect high LAP was determined with sensitivity analysis.

RESULTS

We studied 146 infants (59 stable) with a mean of 27(1) weeks gestation. Impaired relaxation, LV stiffness and high LAP were found in 8%, 7%, and 14% of infants. The patent ductus arteriosus was a contributing factor to high LAP and LV stiffness, not impaired relaxation. Diagnostic accuracy improved from 90% to 96% and sensitivity from 40% to 90% by adding left atrial strain to the 2016 algorithm.

CONCLUSION

Various grades of diastolic dysfunction could be appreciated in preterm infants using a multi-parameter approach. Adding left atrial strain improved sensitivity to detect infants with high LAP.

Echocardiographic Assessment of Pulmonary Arterial Hypertension Following Inhaled Nitric Oxide in Infants with Severe Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

OBJECTIVES

Inhaled nitric oxide (iNO) is an effective pulmonary vasodilator. However, the efficacy of iNO in former premature infants with established bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) has not been studied. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of iNO in reducing pulmonary artery pressure in infants with severe BPD as measured by echocardiography.

STUDY DESIGN

Prospective, observational study enrolling infants born at less than 32 weeks gestation and in whom (1) iNO therapy was initiated after admission to our institution, or (2) at the outside institution less than 48 h before transfer and received an echocardiogram prior to iNO initiation, and (3) had severe BPD. Data were collected at three time-points: (1) before iNO; (2) 12-48 h after initiation of iNO; and (3) 48-168 h after initiation of iNO. The primary outcome was the effect of iNO on pulmonary artery pressure measured by echocardiography in patients with severe BPD between 48 and 168 h after initiating iNO therapy.

RESULTS

Of 37 enrolled, 81% had echocardiographic evidence of pulmonary arterial hypertension (PAH) before iNO and 56% after 48 h of iNO (p = 0.04). FiO2 requirements were significantly different between time-points (1) and (3) (p = 0.05). There were no significant differences between Tricuspid Annular Plane Systolic Excursion (TAPSE) Z-Scores, time to peak velocity: right ventricular ejection time (TPV:RVET), and ventilator changes.

CONCLUSIONS

Although we found a statistically significant reduction of PAH between time-point (1) and (3), future trials are needed to further guide clinical care.

Left ventricular diastolic function and respiratory outcomes in preterm infants: a retrospective study

BACKGROUND

The role of left ventricular (LV) diastolic pressure in the pathophysiology of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is unclear. We evaluated the trajectory of echocardiographic parameters of LV diastolic function and the association with respiratory outcomes in preterm infants.

METHODS

We retrospectively analysed measurements of LV diastolic function (E, e', A, Ee' and E/A ratios) in infants below 32 weeks' gestation (GA). We compared infants with and without BPD by two-way RM ANOVA. We considered Ee' ratio as a proxy of LV filling pressure and identified a cut-off value using ROC analysis. We divided infants using such threshold and compared respiratory outcomes between groups by Mann-Whitney or Chi-square tests.

RESULTS

We included 72 infants. Ee' ratio at 28 days was significantly associated with the duration of respiratory support (beta (std. error) = 5.32 (1.82), p = 0.005) and BPD (beta = 0.27 (0.10), p = 0.008). Infants with Ee' ratio > 12 at 28 days had longer respiratory support, oxygen requirement, and higher BPD rates than infants with Ee' ratio ≤ 12.

CONCLUSION

LV diastolic function associated with elevated LV filling pressure may contribute to the pathophysiology of BPD. Serial echocardiographic measurements could identify infants at risk of worse respiratory outcomes.

IMPACT

In very preterm infants, we assessed the trajectory of left ventricular diastolic function by serial echocardiographic evaluations and evaluated its association with respiratory outcomes. On average, infants who developed bronchopulmonary dysplasia had higher Ee' at 28 postnatal days and 36 weeks postmentrual age than infants who did not develop the disease. Infants with elevated Ee' at 28 postnatal days, suggestive of elevated left atrial pressure, required longer respiratory support.

The prevention and management strategies for neonatal chronic lung disease

INTRODUCTION

Survival from even very premature birth is improving, but long-term respiratory morbidity following neonatal chronic lung disease (bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD)) has not reduced. Affected infants may require supplementary oxygen at home, because they have more hospital admissions particularly due to viral infections and frequent, troublesome respiratory symptoms requiring treatment. Furthermore, adolescents and adults who had BPD have poorer lung function and exercise capacity.

AREAS COVERED

Antenatal and postnatal preventative strategies and management of infants with BPD. A literature review was undertaken using PubMed and Web of Science.

EXPERT OPINION

There are effective preventative strategies which include caffeine, postnatal corticosteroids, vitamin A, and volume guarantee ventilation. Side-effects, however, have appropriately caused clinicians to reduce use of systemically administered corticosteroids to infants only at risk of severe BPD. Promising preventative strategies which need further research are surfactant with budesonide, less invasive surfactant administration (LISA), neurally adjusted ventilatory assist (NAVA) and stem cells. The management of infants with established BPD is under-researched and should include identifying the optimum form of respiratory support on the neonatal unit and at home and which infants will most benefit in the long term from pulmonary vasodilators, diuretics, and bronchodilators.

Targeted neonatal echocardiography and lung ultrasound in preterm infants with chronic lung disease with and without pulmonary hypertension, screened using a standardized algorithm

Introduction

Increased recognition of the development of chronic pulmonary hypertension (cPH) in preterm infants with chronic lung disease (CLD) has prompted enhanced monitoring for the identification of different phenotypes.

Methods

All newborns consulted for oxygen/respiratory support dependency (CLD assessment) from January 2018 to December 2021 were included. TnECHO and LUS screening for cPH-CLD were performed at 36 weeks postmenstrual age. Cases of cPH related to increased pulmonary blood flow (cPH-IPBF) were referred to Pediatric Cardiology. The objective of the study was to identify all cases of cPH (cPH-CLD/IPBF) in the CLD patients screened and to compare outcomes. Following a standardized algorithm, cPH-CLD patients were treated with diuretics; ultrasounds taken before and after treatment were analyzed.

Results

Seventy-two patients with CLD were screened. Twenty-two (30%) had cPH-CLD, and nine (12%) had cPH-IPBF. cPH infants underwent more days of mechanical ventilation, were more likely to have retinopathy of prematurity, and showed increased mortality. The LUS pattern observed in the 72 CLD patients consisted of a thickened pleural line and a B-line interstitial heterogeneous pattern; 29% of patients were found to have lung consolidations. After diuretic therapy, step-down in respiratory support occurred in 59% of neonates with cPH-CLD. A decrease in respiratory rate (RR), right ventricular output (RVO), markers of pulmonary vascular resistance (PVR), and B-line pattern was observed. In tissue Doppler imaging, biventricular diastolic function was found to be modified after diuretics.

Conclusions

CLD infants with cPH showed increased morbidity and mortality. In cPH-CLD patients, a decrease in RR and step-down in respiratory support was observed after diuretic treatment. Follow-up ultrasound showed a decrease in RVO, markers of PVR, and B-lines.

Fetal growth restriction and neonatal-pediatric lung diseases: Vascular mechanistic links and therapeutic directions

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common respiratory sequela of prematurity, and infants born with fetal growth restriction (FGR) are disproportionately represented in BPD statistics, as factors which affect somatic growth may also affect pulmonary growth. Effects of in-utero hypoxia underlying FGR on lung parenchymal architecture predisposing to BPD are well documented, but the pulmonary vascular constructs are not well appreciated. Disruption of angiogenesis during critical periods of lung growth impairs alveolarization, contributing to BPD pathogenesis. Pulmonary artery thickness/stiffness has been noted in FGR in the initial postnatal weeks, and also in well-grown infants with established BPD. The lack of waveform cushioning by the major arteries exposes the pulmonary resistance vessels to higher pulsatile stress, thereby accelerating microvascular disease. Reactive oxygen species, increased sympathetic activity and endothelial dysfunction are common mediators in FGR and BPD; each putative targets for prevention and/or therapeutics using interleukin (IL)-1 receptor antagonist (IL-1Ra), melatonin or inhibition of renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system. While BPD is the archetypal respiratory disease of infancy, effects of FGR on pulmonary function are long-term, extending well into childhood. This narrative links FGR in very/extremely preterm infants with BPD through the vascular affliction as a mechanistic and potentially, therapeutic pathway. Our objectives were to depict the burden of disease for FGR and BPD amongst preterm infants, portray vascular involvement in the placenta in FGR and BPD cohorts, provide high resolution vascular ultrasound information in both cohorts with a view to address therapeutic relevance, and lastly, link this information with paediatric age-group lung diseases.

Left ventricular function before and after percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure in preterm infants

BACKGROUND

Definitive closure of the patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) is associated with significant changes in the loading conditions of the left ventricle (LV), which may lead to cardiovascular and respiratory instability. The objective of the study was to evaluate targeted neonatal echocardiography (TnECHO) characteristics and the clinical course of preterm infants ≤2 kg undergoing percutaneous PDA closure.

METHODS

Retrospective cohort study of prospectively acquired pre- and post-closure TnECHOs to assess hemodynamic changes. Cardiorespiratory parameters in the first 24 h following PDA closure were also evaluated.

RESULTS

Fifty patients were included with a mean age of 30.6 ± 9.6 days and weight of 1188 ± 280 g. LV global longitudinal strain decreased from -20.6 ± 2.6 to -14.9 ± 2.9% (p < 0.001) after 1 h. There was a decrease in LV volume loading, left ventricular output, LV systolic and diastolic parameters. Cardiorespiratory instability occurred in 24 (48%) [oxygenation failure in 44%] but systolic hypotension and/or need for cardiovascular medications was only seen in 6 (12%). Patients with instability had worse baseline respiratory severity score and lower post-closure early diastolic strain rates.

CONCLUSIONS

Percutaneous PDA closure leads to a reduction in echocardiography markers of LV systolic/diastolic function. Post-closure cardiorespiratory instability is characterized primarily by oxygenation failure and may relate to impaired diastolic performance.

IMPACT

Percutaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure leads to a reduction in echocardiography markers of left ventricular volume loading, cardiac output, and left ventricular systolic/diastolic function. Post-procedural cardiorespiratory instability is characterized primarily by oxygenation failure. Post-procedural cardiorespiratory instability may relate to impaired diastolic performance.

Sequelae associated with systemic hypertension in infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia

OBJECTIVES

To ascertain correlation between systemic hypertension and respiratory sequelae amongst infants with BPD.

STUDY DESIGN

Retrospective evaluation of six-year data compared infants with severe BPD to infants with no BPD. 7-day morning blood pressure (BP) (36⁰-36⁶ week) was compared with 95th centile cut-offs.

RESULTS

57 infants with BPD were compared with 114 infants with no BPD. Gestation and birthweight were comparable (median [interquartile range], (27 [25, 28] vs. 26.5 weeks [25, 28], p = 0.7 and 706 g [611, 884] vs. 730 [630, 895]), p = 0.1. Number of infants having BP ≥ 95th centile was significantly higher in BPD cohort (systolic BP, 23/57 [40.3%] vs. 3/114 [2.6%], p < 0.001 & mean arterial BP, 26/57 [46%] vs. 3/114 [2.6%], p < 0.001). Amongst BPD infants, higher BP was associated with longer duration of respiratory support (median [range], 109 days [81-138] vs. 87 [58-109], p < 0.001).

CONCLUSIONS

Infants with severe BPD had higher BP compared to those without BPD.

Role of left atrial hypertension in pulmonary hypertension associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Left atrial hypertension (LAH) may contribute to pulmonary hypertension (PH) in premature infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Primary causes of LAH in infants with BPD include left ventricular diastolic dysfunction or hemodynamically significant left to right shunt. The incidence of LAH, which is definitively diagnosed by cardiac catheterization, and its contribution to PH is unknown in patients with BPD-PH. We report the prevalence of LAH in an institutional cohort with BPD-PH with careful examination of hemodynamic contributors and impact on patient outcomes. This single-center, retrospective cohort study examined children <2 years of age with BPD-PH who underwent cardiac catheterization at Lucile Packard Children's Hospital Stanford. Patients with unrepaired simple shunt congenital heart disease (CHD) and pulmonary vein stenosis (only 1 or 2 vessel disease) were included. Patients with complex CHD were excluded. From April 2010 to December 2021, 34 patients with BPD-PH underwent cardiac catheterization. We define LAH as pulmonary capillary wedge pressure (PCWP) or left atrial pressure (LAP) of at least 10 mmHg. In this cohort, median PCWP was 8 mmHg, with LAH present in 32% (n = 11) of the total cohort. A majority (88%, n = 30) of the cohort had severe BPD. Most patients had some form of underlying CHD and/or pulmonary vein stenosis: 62% (n = 21) with an atrial septal defect or patent foramen ovale, 62% (n = 21) with patent ductus arteriosus, 12% (n = 4) with ventricular septal defect, and 12% (n = 4) with pulmonary vein stenosis. Using an unadjusted logistic regression model, baseline requirement for positive pressure ventilation at time of cardiac catheterization was associated with increased risk for LAH (odds ratio 8.44, 95% CI 1.46-48.85, p = 0.02). Small for gestational age birthweight, sildenafil use, and CHD were not associated with increased risk for LAH. LAH was associated with increased risk for the composite outcome of tracheostomy and/or death, with a hazard ratio of 6.32 (95% CI 1.72, 22.96; p = 0.005). While the etiology of BPD-PH is multifactorial, LAH is associated with PH in some cases and may play a role in clinical management and patient outcomes.

Hemodynamic consequences of respiratory interventions in preterm infants

Advances in perinatal management have led to improvements in survival rates for premature infants. It is known that the transitional period soon after birth, and the subsequent weeks, remain periods of rapid circulatory changes. Preterm infants, especially those born at the limits of viability, are susceptible to hemodynamic effects of routine respiratory care practices. In particular, the immature myocardium and cardiovascular system is developmentally vulnerable. Standard of care (but essential) respiratory interventions, administered as part of neonatal care, may negatively impact heart function and/or pulmonary or systemic hemodynamics. The available evidence regarding the hemodynamic impact of these respiratory practices is not well elucidated. Enhanced diagnostic precision and therapeutic judiciousness are warranted. In this narrative, we outline (1) the vulnerability of preterm infants to hemodynamic disturbances (2) the hemodynamic effects of common respiratory practices; including positive pressure ventilation and surfactant therapy, and (3) identify tools to assess cardiopulmonary interactions and guide management.

Cardiovascular impact and sequelae of bronchopulmonary dysplasia

The development, growth, and function of the cardiac, pulmonary, and vascular systems are closely intertwined during both fetal and postnatal life. In utero, placental, environmental, and genetic insults may contribute to abnormal pulmonary alveolarization and vascularization that increase susceptibility to the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in preterm infants. However, the shared milieu of stressors may also contribute to abnormal cardiac or vascular development in the fetus and neonate, leading to the potential for cardiovascular dysfunction. Further, cardiac or pulmonary maladaptation can potentiate dysfunction in the other organ, amplify the risk for BPD in the neonate, and increase the trajectory for overall neonatal morbidity. Beyond infancy, there is an increased risk for systemic and pulmonary vascular disease including hypertension, as well as potential cardiac dysfunction, particularly within the right ventricle. This review will focus on the cardiovascular antecedents of BPD in the fetus, cardiovascular consequences of preterm birth in the neonate including associations with BPD, and cardiovascular impact of prematurity and BPD throughout the lifespan.

Safety, Feasibility, and Impact of Enalapril on Cardiorespiratory Physiology and Health in Preterm Infants with Systemic Hypertension and Left Ventricular Diastolic Dysfunction

Neonatal hypertension has been increasingly recognized in premature infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD); of note, a sub-population of these infants may have impaired left ventricular (LV) diastolic function, warranting timely treatment to minimize long term repercussions. In this case series, enalapril, an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor, was started in neonates with systemic hypertension and echocardiography signs of LV diastolic dysfunction. A total of 11 patients were included with birth weight of 785 ± 239 grams and gestational age of 25.3 (24, 26.1) weeks. Blood pressure improvement was noticed within 2 weeks of treatment. Improvement in LV diastolic function indices were observed with a reduction in Isovolumic Relaxation Time (IVRT) from 63.1 ± 7.2 to 50.9 ± 7.4 msec and improvement in the left atrium size indexed to aorta (LA:Ao) from1.73 (1.43, 1.88) to 1.23 (1.07, 1.29). Neonatal systemic hypertension is often underappreciated in ex-preterm infants and may be associated with important maladaptive cardiac changes with long term implications. It is biologically plausible that identifying and treating LV diastolic dysfunction in neonates with systemic hypertension may have a positive modulator effect on cardiovascular health in childhood and beyond.

Influence of extreme prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia on cardiac function

OBJECTIVE

Prematurity and bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) are associated with poorly understood abnormalities of ventricular function. We therefore comprehensively compared biventricular function in infants with and without BPD.

METHODS

Prospective observational study in extremely preterm infants with (n = 20) and without (n = 38) BPD using conventional and advanced echocardiography at 28 days (T1) and near-term (T2).

RESULTS

Infants with BPD had lower birth gestational age (26.7±1.9 vs 27.4±1.1 weeks, p = 0.047) and weight (884±207 vs 1108±190 g, p = 0.0001). BPD was associated with larger right ventricles (RV) and reduced RV systolic strain rate at T1 and pulmonary hypertensive indicators at T2 (pulmonary artery acceleration time BPD 51±17 vs no BPD 63±12 ms, p = 0.017). At T1/T2, infants with BPD had lower RV tissue Doppler velocities (e', a' and s) and higher E/e' ratios (T1: BPD 10.4±2.4 vs no BPD 6.2±3.1 cm/sec, p = 0.001; T2: BPD 8.0±3.1 vs no BPD 5.6±2.6 cm/sec, p = 0.02), altered LV diastolic function (apical circumferential T1 early diastolic strain rate BPD 2.8±0.8 vs no BPD 3.6±1.0 /sec, p = 0.04; T2 late diastolic strain rate, BPD 2.29 ± 0.99 vs no BPD 1.67±0.84 /sec, p = 0.03) and LV rotational mechanics (T1: twist rate BPD 90±16 vs no BPD 130±48 deg/sec^, p = 0.008; untwist rate (UTR) BPD -69±90 vs no BPD -147±68 deg/sec, p = 0.008; torsion BPD 2.78±0.56 vs no BPD 4.48±1.74 deg/cm, p = 0.009; and T2: UTR BPD -132±69 vs no BPD -179±57 deg/sec, p = 0.013).

CONCLUSION

BPD is associated with altered RV diastolic function that persists near term, with elevated pulmonary vascular resistance, and with persistent alterations in LV apical strain rate and rotational mechanics.

Echocardiographic Monitoring of Cardiac Parameters to Predict Bronchial Dysplasia in Very Premature Infants

Echocardiography was used to measure the cardiac parameters in high-risk premature infants prone to bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). These measurements were used to determine the correlation between the parameters and BPD and whether they could be used to predict the parameters associated with cardiac health of BPD in very premature infants at a very early stage. Seventy-four very premature infants (gestational age < 32 weeks) were recruited in this retrospective, single-center, observational studies. All infants were examined using echocardiography within a week after birth, and the cardiac chamber parameters were recorded. Of these, 14 infants with BPD were reexamined at 4 weeks after birth. Statistical analysis and comparison of the data of these 14 infants indicated that 1-week after birth, the inner diameters of PA/AS/AO/LA/ROVT/LVPW/LV were significantly smaller (P < 0.05), and that of AS/AO/LA/LV were highly significantly smaller (P < 0.001) in the BPD group compared with the non-BPD group. Comparing the cardiac parameters between 1 and 4 weeks after birth in infants with BPD showed a significant difference in the diameter of PA/AS/AO/ROVT/IVS/LVPW/LV, suggesting that the ventricular cavity developed more efficiently during growth.

Adrenomedullin regulated by miRNA-574-3p protects premature infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common chronic lung disease (CLD) in premature infants. The present study was designed to elucidate the regulation of miRNA-547-3p on adrenomedullin (ADM) during the pathogenesis of BPD. We used Agilent Human 4x44K Gene Expression Microarrays v2 and miRCURY LNA™ microRNA Array to identify the differently expressed miRNA and its potential target genes, and certified them again by luciferase reporter gene analysis. We only retained target genes that met the following two conditions: first, coexisting in two databases, and second, expressing differences, and then identifying target genes by luciferase reporter gene analysis. Thus, we selected miRNA-574-3p and its target gene ADM for further research. We used real-time q-PCR to determine the expression of miRNA-574-3p and its target gene ADM in premature infants with BPD. We used microarray expression to analyze BPD samples and non-BPD samples and found that there were 516 differently expressed probes between them. The 516 differently expressed probes included 408 up-regulated probes and 108 down-regulated probes. The blood samples of BPD infants were detected by real-time q-PCR and found that the expression of miRNA-574-3p was decreased, while the expression of ADM was significantly increased. Luciferase reporter gene analysis showed that hsa-miR-574-3p can regulate the expression of luciferase with ADM 3′UTR, and decrease it by 61.84%. It has been reported in the literature that ADM can protect the premature infants with BPD. The target gene ADM of miRNA-574-3p may contribute to the prevention and treatment of BPD.

LncRNA-MALAT1, as a biomarker of neonatal BPD, exacerbates the pathogenesis of BPD by targeting miR-206

Neonatal bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is one of the common causes of premature birth complications, which is caused by lung dysplasia. Long non-coding RNA (LncRNA) has been proved to be related to BPD and other disease processes, but the molecular mechanism of metastasis-related lung adenocarcinoma transcript 1 (MALAT1) in BPD has not been fully understood. This study focused on exploring the clinical and molecular mechanism of MALAT1 in neonatal BPD, aiming to provide new insights for the management of neonatal BPD. In our study, we first found that serum MALAT1 was up-regulated in neonatal BPD and severe BPD. Further, through receiver operating characteristic curve (ROC) analysis, it was found that the area under the curve of MALAT1 for differentiating neonatal BPD from severe BPD was 0.943 and 0.866, respectively. Then, we established BPD models in vivo and in vitro with C57BL/6J mice and BEAS-2B cells, and found that MALAT1 was also highly expressed in them and increased with the induction time of the models. Pathological evaluation confirmed that down-regulating MALAT1 or up-regulating miR-206 might improve the pathological condition of BPD. Obvious inflammatory response, oxidative stress and up-regulated apoptosis were observed in BPD models in vivo and in vitro. However, after MALAT1 knockdown treatment, the above abnormal phenomena were alleviated to varying degrees. Furthermore, we also found that MALAT1 has a targeted relationship with miR-206, and miR-206 is down-regulated in BPD in vivo and in vitro. Down-regulating miR-206 could also eliminate the anti-BPD effect after knocking down MALAT1. The above results indicated that MALAT1 has the potential as a blood biomarker of neonatal BPD, and MALAT1-miR-206 axis mediates BPD process, which may be a new target for neonatal BPD treatment.

Comparison of Multivariable Logistic Regression and Machine Learning Models for Predicting Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia or Death in Very Preterm Infants

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most prevalent and clinically significant complication of prematurity. Accurate identification of at-risk infants would enable ongoing intervention to improve outcomes. Although postnatal exposures are known to affect an infant's likelihood of developing BPD, most existing BPD prediction models do not allow risk to be evaluated at different time points, and/or are not suitable for use in ethno-diverse populations. A comprehensive approach to developing clinical prediction models avoids assumptions as to which method will yield the optimal results by testing multiple algorithms/models. We compared the performance of machine learning and logistic regression models in predicting BPD/death. Our main cohort included infants <33 weeks' gestational age (GA) admitted to a Canadian Neonatal Network site from 2016 to 2018 (n = 9,006) with all analyses repeated for the <29 weeks' GA subcohort (n = 4,246). Models were developed to predict, on days 1, 7, and 14 of admission to neonatal intensive care, the composite outcome of BPD/death prior to discharge. Ten-fold cross-validation and a 20% hold-out sample were used to measure area under the curve (AUC). Calibration intercepts and slopes were estimated by regressing the outcome on the log-odds of the predicted probabilities. The model AUCs ranged from 0.811 to 0.886. Model discrimination was lower in the <29 weeks' GA subcohort (AUCs 0.699-0.790). Several machine learning models had a suboptimal calibration intercept and/or slope (k-nearest neighbor, random forest, artificial neural network, stacking neural network ensemble). The top-performing algorithms will be used to develop multinomial models and an online risk estimator for predicting BPD severity and death that does not require information on ethnicity.

The Clinical Evaluation of Severe Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a common disease of prematurity that presents along a wide spectrum of disease severity. Infants with high severity require prolonged hospitalizations and benefit from multidisciplinary care. We describe our approach to the evaluation of infants with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia. Important considerations include the phenotypic heterogeneity in clinical presentation that necessitates individualized care, the common presence of comorbidities and importance of a comprehensive multisystem evaluation, and the value of applying a chronic care model that prioritizes long-term respiratory and neurodevelopmental goals. Key features of the history, physical examination, and diagnostic studies are discussed with these considerations in mind.

Advances in treating bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Introduction: Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a common long-term adverse complication of very premature delivery. Affected infants can suffer chronic respiratory morbidities including lung function abnormalities and reduced exercise capacity even as young adults. Many studies have investigated possible preventative strategies; however, it is equally important to identify optimum management strategies for infants with evolving or established BPD. Areas covered: Respiratory support modalities and established and novel pharmacological treatments. Expert opinion: Respiratory support modalities including proportional assist ventilation and neurally adjusted ventilatory assist are associated with short term improvements in oxygenation indices. Such modalities need to be investigated in appropriate RCTs. Many pharmacological treatments are routinely used with a limited evidence base, for example diuretics. Stem cell therapies in small case series are associated with promising results. More research is required before it is possible to determine if such therapies should be investigated in large RCTs with long-term outcomes.

Phosphodiesterase inhibitors: Potential role in the respiratory distress of neonates

Phosphodiesterases (PDEs) are a superfamily of enzymes that catalyze the hydrolysis of phosphodiester bonds of 3',5' cyclic adenosine and guanosine monophosphate (cAMP and cGMP). PDEs control hydrolysis of cyclic nucleotides in many cells and tissues. Inhibition of PDEs by selective or nonselective PDE inhibitors represents an effective targeted strategy for the treatment of various diseases including respiratory disorders. Recent data have demonstrated that PDE inhibitors can also be of benefit in respiratory distress in neonates. This article outlines the pharmacological properties of nonselective and selective PDE inhibitors and provides up-to-date information regarding their use in experimental models of neonatal respiratory distress as well as in clinical studies.

ACE inhibition for severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia - an approach based on physiology

Premature infants have a high incidence of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD). Systemic hypertension, arterial thickness and stiffness, and increased systemic afterload may all contribute to BPD pathophysiology by altering left ventricular (LV) function and increasing pulmonary venous congestion by lowering end-diastolic compliance. This case series studied the usefulness of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibition by measuring clinical and echocardiographic improvements in six consecutive infants with "severe" BPD unresponsive to conventional therapy. The range of gestation and birthweight were 23-29 weeks and 505-814 g, respectively. All required mechanical ventilation (including high-frequency oscillation) and all but one were administered postnatal corticosteroids. Other treatments including sildenafil and diuretics made no clinical improvements. Captopril was started for systemic hypertension after cardiac and vascular ultrasounds which were repeated 5 weeks later. A significant reduction in oxygen (55 ± 25 to 29 ± 3%, two-tailed P = 0.03) and ventilator requirements, and improved cardiovascular parameters were noted. This included a trend toward reduction in aorta intima media thickness [840 ± 94 to 740 ± 83 μm, P = 0.07] and an increased pulsatile diameter [36 ± 14 to 63 ± 25 μm, P = 0.04]). Improvements were observed for both systolic (increased LV output, 188 ± 13 to 208 ± 13 mL/kg/min, P = 0.046 and mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening, 1.6 ± 0.2 to 2.5 ± 0.3 [circ/sec], P = 0.0004) and diastolic (decreased isovolumic relaxation time, 69.6 ± 8.2 to 59.4 ± 5 msec, P = 0.044) function which was accompanied by increased pulmonary vein flow. Right ventricular output increased accompanied by a significant lowering of pulmonary vascular resistance. These findings suggest that improving respiratory and cardiac indices (especially diastolic function) warrants further exploration of ACE inhibition in BPD infants unresponsive to conventional therapy.

Functional morphometry for the estimation of the alveolar surface area in prematurely-born infants

Conventionally, the alveolar surface area (S_A) has been measured by using post-mortem morphometry. Such studies have highlighted that S_A in prematurely-born infants is markedly smaller when compared to term-born infants as a result of postnatal impairment or arrest of alveolar development. We herein explore how, non-invasive measurements of the ventilation/perfusion ratio (V_A/Q) can be used to estimate S_A in prematurely-born surviving, convalescent infants. We also compare S_A in prematurely-born infants measured at term-corrected age, to term-born infants using previously published datasets of V_A/Q. Fick's first law of diffusion is employed for the conversion of V_A/Q measurements to S_A values after correcting for differences in pulmonary perfusion, thickness of the respiratory membrane and alveolar-arterial gradient. We report that S_A is fivefold smaller in prematurely-born compared to term-born infants. We conclude that non-invasive measurements of V_A/Q can be used for the functional estimation of S_A which could, in turn, be used as a future outcome measure in respiratory studies of prematurely-born infants.

Application of Neonatologist Performed Echocardiography in the assessment and management of persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn

Pulmonary hypertension contributes to morbidity and mortality in both the term newborn infant, referred to as persistent pulmonary hypertension of the newborn (PPHN), and the premature infant, in the setting of abnormal pulmonary vasculature development and arrested growth. In the term infant, PPHN is characterized by the failure of the physiological postnatal decrease in pulmonary vascular resistance that results in impaired oxygenation, right ventricular failure, and pulmonary-to-systemic shunting. The pulmonary vasculature is either maladapted, maldeveloped, or underdeveloped. In the premature infant, the mechanisms are similar in that the early onset pulmonary hypertension (PH) is due to pulmonary vascular immaturity and its underdevelopment, while late onset PH is due to the maladaptation of the pulmonary circulation that is seen with severe bronchopulmonary dysplasia. This may lead to cor-pulmonale if left undiagnosed and untreated. Neonatologist performed echocardiography (NPE) should be considered in any preterm or term neonate that presents with risk factors suggesting PPHN. In this review, we discuss the risk factors for PPHN in term and preterm infants, the etiologies, and the pathophysiological mechanisms as they relate to growth and development of the pulmonary vasculature. We explore the applications of NPE techniques that aid in the correct diagnostic and pathophysiological assessment of the most common neonatal etiologies of PPHN and provide guidelines for using these techniques to optimize the management of the neonate with PPHN.

Long non-coding RNA MALAT1 protects preterm infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia by inhibiting cell apoptosis

Background

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a neonatal chronic lung disease characterized by impaired pulmonary alveolar development in preterm infants. Until now, little is known about the molecular and cellular basis of BPD. There is increasing evidence that lncRNAs regulate cell proliferation and apoptosis during lung organogenesis. The potential role of lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of BPD is unclear. This study aims to clarify the role of MALAT1 during the process of BPD in preterm infants and illustrate the protective effect of MALAT1 involved in preterm infants.

Methods

We assessed the expression of MALAT1 in BPD mice lung tissues by reanalyzing dataset GSE25286 (Mouse GEO Genome 4302 Array) from gene expression database gene expression omnibus (GEO), and verified MALAT1 expression in BPD patients by realtime q-PCR. Then the role of MALAT1 in regulating cell biology was examined by profiling dataset GSE43830. The expression of CDC6, a known antiapoptopic gene was verified in BPD patients and the alveolar epithelial cell line A549 cells in which MALAT1 was knocked down. Cell apoptosis was determined by FACS using PI/Annexin-V staining.

Results

The expression of MALAT1 was significantly evaluated in lung tissues of BPD mice at day 14 and day 29 compared to WT (P < 0.05). In consistent with mRNA array profiling analysis, MALAT1 expression level in blood samples from preterm infants with BPD was significantly increased. Bioinformative data analysis of MALAT1 knockdown in WI-38 cells showed various differentially expressed genes were found enriched in apoptosis related pathway. Down-regulation of antiapoptopic gene, CDC6 expression was further verified by q-PCR result. PI/Annexin-V apoptisis assay results showed that MALAT1 knocked down in the alveolar epithelial cell line (A549) promotes cell apoptosis.

Conclusions

In our study, we found that up-regulation of lncRNA MALAT1 could protect preterm infants with BPD by inhibiting cell apoptosis. These data provide novel insights into MALAT1 regulation which may be relevant to cell fate and shed light on BPD prevention and treatment.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (10.1186/s12890-017-0524-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Recent advances in our understanding of the mechanisms of late lung development and bronchopulmonary dysplasia

The objective of lung development is to generate an organ of gas exchange that provides both a thin gas diffusion barrier and a large gas diffusion surface area, which concomitantly generates a steep gas diffusion concentration gradient. As such, the lung is perfectly structured to undertake the function of gas exchange: a large number of small alveoli provide extensive surface area within the limited volume of the lung, and a delicate alveolo-capillary barrier brings circulating blood into close proximity to the inspired air. Efficient movement of inspired air and circulating blood through the conducting airways and conducting vessels, respectively, generates steep oxygen and carbon dioxide concentration gradients across the alveolo-capillary barrier, providing ideal conditions for effective diffusion of both gases during breathing. The development of the gas exchange apparatus of the lung occurs during the second phase of lung development-namely, late lung development-which includes the canalicular, saccular, and alveolar stages of lung development. It is during these stages of lung development that preterm-born infants are delivered, when the lung is not yet competent for effective gas exchange. These infants may develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), a syndrome complicated by disturbances to the development of the alveoli and the pulmonary vasculature. It is the objective of this review to update the reader about recent developments that further our understanding of the mechanisms of lung alveolarization and vascularization and the pathogenesis of BPD and other neonatal lung diseases that feature lung hypoplasia.

Cardiac Morphology and Function in Preterm Growth Restricted Infants: Relevance for Clinical Sequelae

OBJECTIVES

To assess cardiac morphology and function in preterm infants with fetal growth restriction (FGR) compared with an appropriate for gestational age cohort, and to ascertain clinical correlation with neonatal sequelae.

STUDY DESIGN

With informed consent, 20 infants born between 28 and 32 weeks of gestational age and birthweight (BW) <10th percentile were compared using conventional and tissue Doppler echocardiography with 20 preterm appropriate for gestational age infants. Total duration of respiratory support was recorded.

RESULTS

The gestational age and BW of the infants with FGR and appropriate for gestational age infants were 29.8 ± 1.3 weeks vs 30 ± 0.9 weeks (P = .78) and 923.4 ± 168 g vs 1403 ± 237 g (P < .001), respectively. Preterm infants with FGR had significantly greater interventricular septal hypertrophy, greater free wall thickening, and lower sphericity indices (1.53 ± 0.15 vs 1.88 ± 0.2; P < .001), signifying globular and hypertrophied hearts. The transmitral E/A ratio and isovolumic relaxation time, markers of diastolic function, were significantly increased in the FGR cohort (0.84 ± 0.05 vs 0.78 ± 0.03 [P < .001] and 61.4 ± 4.1 ms vs 53.2 ± 3.2 ms [P < .001], respectively). Ejection fraction, as measured by the rate corrected mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening was reduced (1.93 ± 0.4 circ/second vs 2.77 ± 0.5 circ/second; P < .001) in the FGR cohort. On follow-up, the total duration of respiratory support was significantly longer in the FGR cohort, and correlated with tissue Doppler E/E' (r = 0.65; P = .001), mean velocity of circumferential fiber shortening (r = -0.64; P = .001) and mitral annular peak systolic excursion (r = -0.57; P = .008).

CONCLUSIONS

Preterm infants with FGR have altered cardiac function evident within days after birth, which is associated with respiratory sequelae.