Maternal Interleukin Genotypes Are Associated With NICU Outcomes Among Low-Birth-Weight Infants

Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms in Neonatal Necrotizing Enterocolitis

The etiopathogenesis of necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) remains unclear, but increasing information suggests that the risk and severity of NEC may be influenced by single nucleotide polymorphisms in many genes. In this article, we have reviewed gene variations that have either been specifically identified in NEC or have been noted in other inflammatory bowel disorders with similar histopathological abnormalities. We present evidence from our own peer-reviewed laboratory studies and data from an extensive literature search in the databases PubMed, EMBASE, and Scopus. To avoid bias in the identification of existing studies, search keywords were short-listed both from our own studies and from PubMed's Medical Subject Heading (MeSH) thesaurus.

Cytokines and pregnancy: Potential regulation by histone deacetylases

Cytokines are important regulators of pregnancy and parturition. Aberrant expression of proinflammatory cytokines during pregnancy contributes towards preterm labor, pre-eclampsia, and gestational diabetes mellitus. The regulation of cytokine expression in human cells is highly complex, involving interactions between environment, transcription factors, and feedback mechanisms. Recent developments in epigenetic research have made tremendous advancements in exploring histone modifications as a key epigenetic regulator of cytokine expression and the effect of their signaling molecules on various organ systems in the human body. Histone acetylation and subsequent deacetylation by histone deacetylases (HDACs) are major epigenetic regulators of protein expression in the human body. The expression of various proinflammatory cytokines, their role in normal and abnormal pregnancy, and their epigenetic regulation via HDACs will be discussed in this review.

Considerations for Preterm Human Milk Feedings When Caring for Mothers Who Are Overweight or Obese

BACKGROUND

Mother's milk is the recommended source of nutrition for all newborns. Preterm infants may be further compromised by maternal factors that impede successful lactation and alter milk composition.

PURPOSE

To review and summarize the state of the science regarding implications of maternal overweight and obesity on successful lactation and associated alterations in preterm mother's milk composition.

METHODS/SEARCH STRATEGY

PubMed, EMBASE, and Web of Science searches were performed using relevant key words to identify references addressing maternal overweight or obesity, prematurity, human milk, and lactation.

FINDINGS/RESULTS

In the United States, more than half of women enter pregnancy with an overweight or obese body mass index. These women have increased risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes and obstetric complications that can undermine successful initiation and continuation of lactation, including preterm birth. Maternal overweight and obesity are also associated with alterations in mother's milk composition.

IMPLICATIONS FOR PRACTICE

Mother-preterm infant dyads affected by maternal overweight and obesity are at risk for barriers to initiation and continuation of lactation. Support for early initiation of milk expression is needed. Continued support, especially during the first weeks of lactation, can facilitate sustained milk production.

IMPLICATIONS FOR RESEARCH

Considerable knowledge gaps remain in this area of human milk science. Future research is needed to facilitate more comprehensive understanding of differences in milk composition associated with maternal overweight and obesity and their impact on clinical outcomes in the preterm infant.