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Heyer J, Schubert F, Seitz AL, Steinle Y, Arens J, Orlikowsky T, Steinseifer U, Schmitz-Rode T, Jansen SV, Schoberer M. A Volume-Adjustable Artificial Womb for Extremely Preterm Infants. Transpl Int 2024; 37:12947. [PMID: 39119064 PMCID: PMC11306982 DOI: 10.3389/ti.2024.12947] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/10/2024]
Abstract
More than 13 million children are born preterm annually. Prematurity-related mortality accounts for 0.9 million deaths worldwide. The majority of those affected are Extremely Preterm Infants (gestational age less than 28 weeks). Immaturity causes organ failure and specific morbidities like germinal matrix hemorrhage, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and necrotizing enterocolitis. Artificial womb and placenta technologies address these issues. As a bridge-to-life technology, they provide a liquid environment to allow organ maturation under more physiological conditions. The proposed artificial womb can adapt to fetal growth. Volume adjustment is achieved by removing fluid from the interspace between an inner and outer chamber. Results of the in vitro tests showed a temperature constancy of 36.8°C ± 0.3°C without pressure loss over 7 days. The volume of the inner sac was variable between 3.6 and 7.0 L. We designed a filtration and disinfection system for this particular purpose. This system has proven strong disinfection capabilities, effective filtering of metabolic waste, and the ability to avoid phospholipid washout. The presented artificial womb has sufficient volume variability to adapt to the physiologic growth of an extremely preterm neonate over a 4-week period. We regard this as an important step in the development of this bridge-to-life technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan Heyer
- Department of Cardiovascular Engineering, Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Franziska Schubert
- Department of Cardiovascular Engineering, Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Alexander L. Seitz
- Department of Cardiovascular Engineering, Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Yannick Steinle
- Department of Cardiovascular Engineering, Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Jutta Arens
- Engineering Organ Support Technologies Group, Department of Biomechanical Engineering, University of Twente, Enschede, Netherlands
| | - Thorsten Orlikowsky
- Pediatric Clinic, Neonatology Section, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Ulrich Steinseifer
- Department of Cardiovascular Engineering, Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Thomas Schmitz-Rode
- Department of Cardiovascular Engineering, Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Sebastian V. Jansen
- Department of Cardiovascular Engineering, Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Helmholtz Institute, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Mark Schoberer
- Pediatric Clinic, Neonatology Section, RWTH Aachen University and University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
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Kühle H, Cho SKS, Charest-Pekeski AJ, Chow JSM, Lee FT, Aujla T, Saini BS, Lim JM, Darby JRT, Mroczek D, Floh AA, McVey MJ, Morrison JL, Seed M, Sun L, Haller C. Echocardiographic assessment of cardiovascular physiology of preterm miniature piglets supported with a pumped artificial placenta system. Prenat Diagn 2024; 44:888-898. [PMID: 38809178 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2024] [Revised: 04/27/2024] [Accepted: 05/12/2024] [Indexed: 05/30/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES We evaluated fetal cardiovascular physiology and mode of cardiac failure in premature miniature piglets on a pumped artificial placenta (AP) circuit. METHODS Fetal pigs were cannulated via the umbilical vessels and transitioned to an AP circuit composed of a centrifugal pump and neonatal oxygenator and maintained in a fluid-filled biobag. Echocardiographic studies were conducted to measure ventricular function, umbilical blood flow, and fluid status. In utero scans were used as control data. RESULTS AP fetuses (n = 13; 102±4d gestational age [term 115d]; 616 ± 139 g [g]; survival 46.4 ± 46.8 h) were tachycardic and hypertensive with initially supraphysiologic circuit flows. Increased myocardial wall thickness was observed. Signs of fetal hydrops were present in all piglets. Global longitudinal strain (GLS) measurements increased in the left ventricle (LV) after transition to the circuit. Right ventricle (RV) and LV strain rate decreased early during AP support compared with in utero measurements but recovered toward the end of the experiment. Fetuses supported for >24 h had similar RV GLS to in utero controls and significantly higher GLS compared to piglets surviving only up to 24 h. CONCLUSIONS Fetuses on a pump-supported AP circuit experienced an increase in afterload, and redistribution of blood flow between the AP and systemic circulations, associated with elevated end-diastolic filling pressures. This resulted in heart failure and hydrops. These preterm fetuses were unable to tolerate the hemodynamic changes associated with connection to the current AP circuit. To better mimic the physiology of the native placenta and preserve normal fetal cardiovascular physiology, further optimization of the circuit will be required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henriette Kühle
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Cardiac and Thoracic Surgery, University Hospital Magdeburg, Otto von Guericke University Magdeburg, Magdeburg, Germany
| | - Steven K S Cho
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alex J Charest-Pekeski
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessica S M Chow
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Fu-Tsuen Lee
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Tanroop Aujla
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Brahmdeep S Saini
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jessie Mei Lim
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jack R T Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Dariusz Mroczek
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alejandro A Floh
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark J McVey
- Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Medicine, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physics, Toronto Metropolitan University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Janna L Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research Group, Health and Biomedical Innovation, Clinical and Health Sciences, University of South Australia, Adelaide, South Australia, Australia
| | - Mike Seed
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physiology, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Institute of Medical Science, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Liqun Sun
- Division of Cardiology, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Translational Medicine Program, Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Christoph Haller
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, The Labatt Family Heart Centre, The Hospital for Sick Children, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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van Haren JS, Delbressine FLM, Schoberer M, te Pas AB, van Laar JOEH, Oei SG, van der Hout-van der Jagt MB. Transferring an extremely premature infant to an extra-uterine life support system: a prospective view on the obstetric procedure. Front Pediatr 2024; 12:1360111. [PMID: 38425664 PMCID: PMC10902175 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2024.1360111] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2023] [Accepted: 02/02/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024] Open
Abstract
To improve care for extremely premature infants, the development of an extrauterine environment for newborn development is being researched, known as Artificial Placenta and Artificial Womb (APAW) technology. APAW facilitates extended development in a liquid-filled incubator with oxygen and nutrient supply through an oxygenator connected to the umbilical vessels. This setup is intended to provide the optimal environment for further development, allowing further lung maturation by delaying gas exposure to oxygen. This innovative treatment necessitates interventions in obstetric procedures to transfer an infant from the native to an artificial womb, while preventing fetal-to-neonatal transition. In this narrative review we analyze relevant fetal physiology literature, provide an overview of insights from APAW studies, and identify considerations for the obstetric procedure from the native uterus to an APAW system. Lastly, this review provides suggestions to improve sterility, fetal and maternal well-being, and the prevention of neonatal transition.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juliette S. van Haren
- Department of Industrial Design, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Máxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, Netherlands
| | | | - Mark Schoberer
- Institute for Applied Medical Engineering and Clinic for Neonatology, University Hospital Aachen, Aachen, Germany
| | - Arjan B. te Pas
- Department of Pediatrics, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Judith O. E. H. van Laar
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Máxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, Netherlands
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - S. Guid Oei
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Máxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, Netherlands
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
| | - M. Beatrijs van der Hout-van der Jagt
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Máxima Medical Centre, Veldhoven, Netherlands
- Department of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, Netherlands
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Verrips M, van Haren JS, Oei SG, Moser A, der Hout-van der Jagt MBV. Clinical aspects of umbilical cord cannulation during transfer from the uterus to a liquid-based perinatal life support system for extremely premature infants a qualitative generic study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290659. [PMID: 38127930 PMCID: PMC10734990 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290659] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
A liquid-based perinatal life support system (PLS) for extremely premature infants (born before 28 week of gestational age) envisions a connection between the infant's native umbilical cord and an artificial placenta system through cannulation. This system mimics a natural mothers' womb to achieve better organ maturations. The objective of this study is to gain insight into the clinical focus points of umbilical cord cannulation and how cannulation should be addressed in extremely premature infants during the transfer from the uterus to an in-utero simulating liquid-based PLS system. We performed an explorative qualitative study. Twelve medical specialists with knowledge of vessel cannulation participated. We collected data through twelve interviews and two focus group discussions. Data were analyzed using inductive content and constant comparison analysis via open and axial coding. Results were derived on the following topics: (1) cannulation technique, (2) cannula fixation, (3) local and systemic anticoagulation, and (4) vasospasm. A side-entry technique is preferred as this may decrease wall damage, stabilizes the vessel better and ensures continuous blood flow. Sutures, especially via an automatic microsurgery instrument, are favored above glue, stents, or balloons as these may be firmer and faster. Medication possibilities for both vasospasm and anticoagulation should function locally since there were uncertainties regarding the systemic effects. According to the findings of this research, the needed umbilical cord cannulation method should include minimal wall damage, improved vascular stability, blood flow maintenance, a strong fixation connection, and local anticoagulation effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Verrips
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Máxima Medical Center, Veldhoven, the Netherlands
| | - J. S van Haren
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Máxima Medical Center, Veldhoven, the Netherlands
- Faculty of Industrial Design, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
| | - S. G Oei
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Máxima Medical Center, Veldhoven, the Netherlands
| | - A Moser
- Department of Family Practice, Maastricht University, Maastricht, the Netherlands
| | - M. B. Van der Hout-van der Jagt
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Máxima Medical Center, Veldhoven, the Netherlands
- Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, Eindhoven, the Netherlands
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Usuda H, Watanabe S, T H, Saito M, Sato S, Ikeda H, Kumagai Y, Choolani MC, Kemp MW. Artificial placenta technology: History, potential and perception. Placenta 2023; 141:10-17. [PMID: 37743742 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2022.10.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2022] [Revised: 09/20/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
As presently conceptualised, the artificial placenta (AP) is an experimental life support platform for extremely preterm infants (i.e. 400-600 g; 21-23+6 weeks of gestation) born at the border of viability. It is based around the oxygenation of the periviable fetus using gas-exchangers connected to the fetal vasculature. In this system, the lung remains fluid-filled and the fetus remains in a quiescent state. The AP has been in development for some sixty years. Over this time, animal experimental models have evolved iteratively from employing external pump-driven systems used to support comparatively mature fetuses (generally goats or sheep) to platforms driven by the fetal heart and used successfully to maintain extremely premature fetuses weighing around 600 g. Simultaneously, sizable advances in neonatal and obstetric care mean that the nature of a potential candidate patient for this therapy, and thus the threshold success level for justifying its adoption, have both changed markedly since this approach was first conceived. Five landmark breakthroughs have occurred over the developmental history of the AP: i) the first human studies reported in the 1950's; ii) foundation animal studies reported in the 1960's; iii) the first extended use of AP technology combined with fetal pulmonary resuscitation reported in the 1990s; iv) the development of AP systems powered by the fetal heart reported in the 2000's; and v) the adaption of this technology to maintain extremely preterm fetuses (i.e. 500-600 g body weight) reported in the 2010's. Using this framework, the present paper will provide a review of the developmental history of this long-running experimental system and up-to-date assessment of the published field today. With the apparent acceleration of AP technology towards clinical application, there has been an increase in the attention paid to the field, along with some inaccurate commentary regarding its potential application and merits. Additionally, this paper will address several misrepresentations regarding the potential application of AP technology that serve to distract from the significant potential of this approach to greatly improve outcomes for extremely preterm infants born at or close to the present border of viability.
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Affiliation(s)
- H Usuda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - S Watanabe
- Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Hanita T
- Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - M Saito
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - S Sato
- Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - H Ikeda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Y Kumagai
- Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - M C Choolani
- Women and Infants Research Foundation, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia
| | - M W Kemp
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Centre for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan; School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Women and Infants Research Foundation, King Edward Memorial Hospital, Perth, Western Australia, Australia; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore.
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6
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Usuda H, Ikeda H, Watanabe S, Sato S, Fee EL, Carter SWD, Kumagai Y, Saito Y, Takahashi T, Takahashi Y, Kawamura S, Hanita T, Saito M, Kikuchi A, Choolani MA, Yaegashi N, Kemp MW. Artificial placenta support of extremely preterm ovine fetuses at the border of viability for up to 336 hours with maintenance of systemic circulation but reduced somatic and organ growth. Front Physiol 2023; 14:1219185. [PMID: 37692998 PMCID: PMC10484719 DOI: 10.3389/fphys.2023.1219185] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Artificial placenta therapy (APT) is an experimental life support system to improve outcomes for extremely preterm infants (EPI) less than 1,000 g by obviating the need for pulmonary gas exchange. There are presently no long-term survival data for EPI supported with APT. To address this, we aimed to maintain 95d-GA (GA; term-150d) sheep fetuses for up to 2 weeks using our APT system. Methods: Pregnant ewes (n = 6) carrying singleton fetuses underwent surgical delivery at 95d GA. Fetuses were adapted to APT and maintained for up to 2 weeks with constant monitoring of key physiological parameters and extensive time-course blood and urine sampling, and ultrasound assessments. Six age-matched in-utero fetuses served as controls. Data were tested for group differences with ANOVA. Results: Six APT Group fetuses (100%) were adapted to APT successfully. The mean BW at the initiation of APT was 656 ± 42 g. Mean survival was 250 ± 72 h (Max 336 h) with systemic circulation and key physiological parameters maintained mostly within normal ranges. APT fetuses had active movements and urine output constantly exceeded infusion volume over the experiment. At delivery, there were no differences in BW (with edema in three APT group animals), brain weight, or femur length between APT and in-utero Control animals. Organ weights and humerus lengths were significantly reduced in the APT group (p < 0.05). Albumin, IGF-1, and phosphorus were significantly decreased in the APT group (p < 0.05). No cases of positive blood culture were detected. Conclusion: We report the longest use of APT to maintain extremely preterm fetuses to date. Fetal systemic circulation was maintained without infection, but growth was abnormal. This achievement suggests a need to focus not only on cardiovascular stability and health but also on the optimization of fetal growth and organ development. This new challenge will need to be overcome prior to the clinical translation of this technology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruo Usuda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Ikeda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Shimpei Watanabe
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Erin L. Fee
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
| | - Sean W. D. Carter
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Yusaku Kumagai
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Yuya Saito
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Takahashi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Yuki Takahashi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | | | - Takushi Hanita
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Saito
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Atsuo Kikuchi
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Mahesh A. Choolani
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Nobuo Yaegashi
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Matthew W. Kemp
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, WA, Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Perth, WA, Australia
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Omecinski KS, Frankowski BJ, Federspiel WJ. Design and In Vitro Evaluation of an Artificial Placenta Made From Hollow Fiber Membranes. ASAIO J 2023; 69:e86-e92. [PMID: 36716073 PMCID: PMC9897463 DOI: 10.1097/mat.0000000000001862] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
For infants born at the border of viability, care practices and morbimortality rates vary widely between centers. Trends show significant improvement, however, with increasing gestational age and weight. For periviable infants, the goal of critical care is to bridge patients to improved outcomes. Current practice involves ventilator therapy, resulting in chronic lung injuries. Research has turned to artificial uterine environments, where infants are submerged in an artificial amniotic fluid bath and provided respiratory assistance via an artificial placenta. We have developed the Preemie-Ox, a hollow fiber membrane bundle that provides pumpless respiratory support via umbilical cord cannulation. Computational fluid dynamics was used to design an oxygenator that could achieve a carbon dioxide removal rate of 12.2 ml/min, an outlet hemoglobin saturation of 100%, and a resistance of less than 71 mmHg/L/min at a blood flow rate of 165 ml/min. A prototype was utilized to evaluate in-vitro gas exchange, resistance, and plasma-free hemoglobin generation. In-vitro gas exchange was 4% higher than predicted results and no quantifiable plasma-free hemoglobin was produced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katelin S Omecinski
- From the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - Brian J Frankowski
- From the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
| | - William J Federspiel
- From the McGowan Institute for Regenerative Medicine, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Chemical and Petroleum Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Department of Critical Care Medicine, University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Clinical and Translational Science Institute, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
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8
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Kendal ES. Form, Function, Perception, and Reception: Visual Bioethics and the Artificial Womb. THE YALE JOURNAL OF BIOLOGY AND MEDICINE 2022; 95:371-377. [PMID: 36187409 PMCID: PMC9511943] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/01/2022]
Abstract
Artificial wombs are already in development that have the potential to radically alter how we perceive the developing fetus and the role of pregnancy in society. That this technology would allow greater visibility of gestation than ever before also highlights the risk that artificial wombs will be used to further restrict women's reproductive liberty and access to abortion. This article uses Paul Lauritzen's theory of "visual bioethics" to explore the ethical significance of images of the developing fetus and how artificial wombs might best be visually designed and integrated into society.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evie S. Kendal
- To whom all correspondence should be addressed:
Dr. Evie Kendal, Swinburne University of Technology, John Street, Hawthorn,
Victoria, Australia;
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9
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Larson AC, De Bie FR, Chang J, Davey MG, Flake AW. The EXTrauterine Environment for Neonatal Development: Present and Future. Pediatr Dev Pathol 2022; 25:253-262. [PMID: 35102770 DOI: 10.1177/10935266211067110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Despite advances in clinical care and modest improvement in mortality rates for extreme prematurity, morbidity remains a significant challenge. The ideal environment to support prematurity would be fluidic and rely on natural fetal circulation to mimic the natural fetal amniotic environment, yet such an environment has been unsuccessful in long-term support until recently. Our group has succeeded in developing such a support system to foster fetal growth in the premature lamb model that shows promise for clinical translation. Here, we describe the EXTrauterine Environment for Neonatal Development (EXTEND) from its conception onwards, review published literature on fetal development and support of the premature lamb model in EXTEND, and discuss future applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abby C Larson
- Center for Fetal Research, 6567Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Felix R De Bie
- Center for Fetal Research, 6567Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA.,Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Jonathan Chang
- Center for Fetal Research, 6567Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Marcus G Davey
- Center for Fetal Research, 6567Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alan W Flake
- Center for Fetal Research, 6567Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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THE ARTIFICIAL PLACENTA: SCI-FI OR REALITY? REVISTA MÉDICA CLÍNICA LAS CONDES 2021. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rmclc.2021.10.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
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Segers S. The path toward ectogenesis: looking beyond the technical challenges. BMC Med Ethics 2021; 22:59. [PMID: 33985480 PMCID: PMC8120724 DOI: 10.1186/s12910-021-00630-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Breakthroughs in animal studies make the topic of human application of ectogenesis for medical and non-medical purposes more relevant than ever before. While current data do not yet demonstrate a reasonable expectation of clinical benefit soon, several groups are investigating the feasibility of artificial uteri for extracorporeal human gestation. MAIN TEXT This paper offers the first comprehensive and up to date discussion of the most important pros and cons of human ectogenesis in light of clinical application, along with an examination of crucial ethical (and legal) issues that continued research into, and the clinical translation of, ectogenesis gives rise to. The expected benefits include advancing prenatal medicine, improving neonatal intensive care, and providing a novel pathway towards biological parenthood. This comes with important future challenges. Prior to human application, important questions have to be considered concerning translational research, experimental use of human fetuses and appropriate safety testing. Key questions are identified regarding risks to ectogenesis' subjects, and the physical impact on the pregnant person when transfer from the uterus to the artificial womb is required. Critical issues concerning proportionality have to be considered, also in terms of equity of access, relative to the envisaged application of ectogenesis. The advent of ectogenesis also comes with crucial issues surrounding abortion, extended fetal viability and moral status of the fetus. CONCLUSIONS The development of human ectogenesis will have numerous implications for clinical practice. Prior to human testing, close consideration should be given to whether (and how) ectogenesis can be introduced as a continuation of existing neonatal care, with due attention to both safety risks to the fetus and pressures on pregnant persons to undergo experimental and/or invasive procedures. Equally important is the societal debate about the acceptable applications of ectogenesis and how access to these usages should be prioritized. It should be anticipated that clinical availability of ectogenesis, possibly first as a way to save extremely premature fetuses, may spark demand for non-medical purposes, like avoiding physical and social burdens of pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Seppe Segers
- Department of Philosophy and Moral Sciences, Bioethics Institute Ghent, Ghent University, Blandijnberg 2, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
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Charest‐Pekeski AJ, Sheta A, Taniguchi L, McVey MJ, Floh A, Sun L, Aujla T, Cho SKS, Ren J, Crawford‐Lean L, Foreman C, Lim JM, Saini BS, Estrada M, Lam A, Belik J, Mroczek D, Quinn M, Holman SL, Darby JRT, Seed M, Morrison JL, Haller C. Achieving sustained extrauterine life: Challenges of an artificial placenta in fetal pigs as a model of the preterm human fetus. Physiol Rep 2021; 9:e14742. [PMID: 33650787 PMCID: PMC7923578 DOI: 10.14814/phy2.14742] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2021] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Artificial placenta (AP) technology aims to maintain fetal circulation, while promoting the physiologic development of organs. Recent reports of experiments performed in sheep indicate the intrauterine environment can be recreated through the cannulation of umbilical vessels, replacement of the placenta with a low-resistance membrane oxygenator, and incubation of the fetus in fluid. However, it remains to be seen whether animal fetuses similar in size to the extremely preterm human infant that have been proposed as a potential target for this technology can be supported in this way. Preterm Yucatan miniature piglets are similar in size to extremely preterm human infants and share similar umbilical cord anatomy, raising the possibility to serve as a good model to investigate the AP. To characterize fetal cardiovascular physiology, the carotid artery (n = 24) was cannulated in utero and umbilical vein (UV) and umbilical artery were sampled. Fetal UV flow was measured by MRI (n = 16). Piglets were delivered at 98 ± 4 days gestation (term = 115 days), cannulated, and supported on the AP (n = 12) for 684 ± 228 min (range 195-3077 min). UV flow was subphysiologic (p = .002), while heart rate was elevated on the AP compared with in utero controls (p = .0007). We observed an inverse relationship between heart rate and UV flow (r2 = .4527; p < .001) with progressive right ventricular enlargement that was associated with reduced contractility and ultimately hydrops and circulatory collapse. We attribute this to excessive afterload imposed by supraphysiologic circuit resistance and augmented sympathetic activity. We conclude that short-term support of the preterm piglet on the AP is feasible, although we have not been able to attain normal fetal physiology. In the future, we propose to investigate the feasibility of an AP circuit that incorporates a centrifugal pump in our miniature pig model.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex J. Charest‐Pekeski
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Translational MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Ayman Sheta
- Department of PediatricsDivision of NeonatologyThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Luiza Taniguchi
- Division of CardiologyThe Labatt Family Heart CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Mark J. McVey
- Department of Anesthesia and Pain MedicineDepartment of Anesthesiology and Pain MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of PhysicsRyerson UniversityTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Alejandro Floh
- Division of CardiologyThe Labatt Family Heart CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
- Department of Critical Care MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Liqun Sun
- Division of CardiologyThe Labatt Family Heart CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Tanroop Aujla
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Translational MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research GroupHealth and Biomedical InnovationClinical and Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Steven K. S. Cho
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Translational MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research GroupHealth and Biomedical InnovationClinical and Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Jiaqi Ren
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Translational MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Lynn Crawford‐Lean
- Division of Cardiovascular SurgeryThe Labatt Family Heart CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Celeste Foreman
- Division of Cardiovascular SurgeryThe Labatt Family Heart CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
| | - Jessie Mei Lim
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Translational MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Brahmdeep S. Saini
- Translational MedicineThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Marvin Estrada
- Lab Animal ServicesResearch InstituteThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Anson Lam
- Lab Animal ServicesResearch InstituteThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Jaques Belik
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Dariusz Mroczek
- Division of CardiologyThe Labatt Family Heart CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Megan Quinn
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research GroupHealth and Biomedical InnovationClinical and Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Stacey L. Holman
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research GroupHealth and Biomedical InnovationClinical and Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Jack R. T. Darby
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research GroupHealth and Biomedical InnovationClinical and Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Mike Seed
- Department of PhysiologyUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
- Division of CardiologyThe Labatt Family Heart CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenTorontoOntarioCanada
- Institute of Medical ScienceUniversity of TorontoTorontoOntarioCanada
| | - Janna L. Morrison
- Early Origins of Adult Health Research GroupHealth and Biomedical InnovationClinical and Health SciencesUniversity of South AustraliaAdelaideSouth AustraliaAustralia
| | - Christoph Haller
- Division of Cardiovascular SurgeryThe Labatt Family Heart CentreThe Hospital for Sick ChildrenUniversity of TorontoTorontoCanada
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Usuda H, Watanabe S, Saito M, Ikeda H, Koshinami S, Sato S, Musk GC, Fee E, Carter S, Kumagai Y, Takahashi T, Takahashi Y, Kawamura S, Hanita T, Kure S, Yaegashi N, Newnham JP, Kemp MW. Successful use of an artificial placenta-based life support system to treat extremely preterm ovine fetuses compromised by intrauterine inflammation. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2020; 223:755.e1-755.e20. [PMID: 32380175 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2020.04.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/26/2019] [Revised: 04/23/2020] [Accepted: 04/28/2020] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ex vivo uterine environment therapy is an experimental intensive care strategy for extremely preterm infants born between 21 and 24 weeks of gestation. Gas exchange is performed by membranous oxygenators connected by catheters to the umbilical vessels. The fetus is submerged in a bath of synthetic amniotic fluid. The lungs remain fluid filled, and pulmonary respiration does not occur. Intrauterine inflammation is strongly associated with extremely preterm birth and fetal injury. At present, there are no data that we are aware of to show that artificial placenta-based systems can be used to support extremely preterm fetuses compromised by exposure to intrauterine inflammation. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the ability of our ex vivo uterine environment therapy platform to support extremely preterm ovine fetuses (95-day gestational age; approximately equivalent to 24 weeks of human gestation) exposed to intrauterine inflammation for a period of 120 hours, the following primary endpoints were chosen: (1) maintenance of key physiological variables within normal ranges, (2) absence of infection and inflammation, (3) absence of brain injury, and (4) gross fetal growth and cardiovascular function matching that of age-matched in utero controls. STUDY DESIGN Ten ewes with singleton pregnancies were each given a single intraamniotic injection of 10-mg Escherichia coli lipopolysaccharides under ultrasound guidance 48 hours before undergoing surgical delivery for adaptation to ex vivo uterine environment therapy at 95-day gestation (term=150 days). Fetuses were adapted to ex vivo uterine environment therapy and maintained for 120 hours with constant monitoring of key vital parameters (ex vivo uterine environment group) before being killed at 100-day equivalent gestational age. Umbilical artery blood samples were regularly collected to assess blood gas data, differential counts, biochemical parameters, inflammatory markers, and microbial load to exclude infection. Ultrasound was conducted at 48 hours after intraamniotic lipopolysaccharides (before surgery) to confirm fetal viability and at the conclusion of the experiments (before euthanasia) to evaluate cardiac function. Brain injury was evaluated by gross anatomic and histopathologic investigations. Eight singleton pregnant control animals were similarly exposed to intraamniotic lipopolysaccharides at 93-day gestation and were killed at 100-day gestation to allow comparative postmortem analyses (control group). Biobanked samples from age-matched saline-treated animals served as an additional comparison group. Successful instillation of lipopolysaccharides into the amniotic fluid exposure was confirmed by amniotic fluid analysis at the time of administration and by analyzing cytokine levels in fetal plasma and amniotic fluid. Data were tested for mean differences using analysis of variance. RESULTS Six of 8 lipopolysaccharide control group (75%) and 8 of 10 ex vivo uterine environment group fetuses (80%) successfully completed their protocols. Six of 8 ex vivo uterine environment group fetuses required dexamethasone phosphate treatment to manage profound refractory hypotension. Weight and crown-rump length were reduced in ex vivo uterine environment group fetuses at euthanasia than those in lipopolysaccharide control group fetuses (P<.05). There were no biologically significant differences in cardiac ultrasound measurement, differential leukocyte counts (P>.05), plasma tumor necrosis factor α, monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 concentrations (P>.05), or liver function tests between groups. Daily blood cultures were negative for aerobic and anaerobic growth in all ex vivo uterine environment group animals. No cases of intraventricular hemorrhage were observed. White matter injury was identified in 3 of 6 lipopolysaccharide control group fetuses and 3 of 8 vivo uterine environment group fetuses. CONCLUSION We report the use of an artificial placenta-based system to support extremely preterm lambs compromised by exposure to intrauterine inflammation. Our data highlight key challenges (refractory hypotension, growth restriction, and white matter injury) to be overcome in the development and use of artificial placenta technology for extremely preterm infants. As such challenges seem largely absent from studies based on healthy pregnancies, additional experiments of this nature using clinically relevant model systems are essential for further development of this technology and its eventual clinical application.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruo Usuda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan.
| | - Shimpei Watanabe
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Saito
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Hideyuki Ikeda
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Shota Koshinami
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Gabrielle C Musk
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; Animal Care Services, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Erin Fee
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Sean Carter
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Yusaku Kumagai
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Tsukasa Takahashi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Yuki Takahashi
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | | | - Takushi Hanita
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Shigeo Kure
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - Nobuo Yaegashi
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan
| | - John P Newnham
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Matthew W Kemp
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, The University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Miyagi, Japan; School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Western Australia, Australia
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Swol J, Shigemura N, Ichiba S, Steinseifer U, Anraku M, Lorusso R. Artificial lungs--Where are we going with the lung replacement therapy? Artif Organs 2020; 44:1135-1149. [PMID: 33098217 DOI: 10.1111/aor.13801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/26/2020] [Revised: 08/03/2020] [Accepted: 08/04/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Lung transplantation may be a final destination therapy in lung failure, but limited donor organ availability creates a need for alternative management, including artificial lung technology. This invited review discusses ongoing developments and future research pathways for respiratory assist devices and tissue engineering to treat advanced and refractory lung disease. An overview is also given on the aftermath of the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic and lessons learned as the world comes out of this situation. The first order of business in the future of lung support is solving the problems with existing mechanical devices. Interestingly, challenges identified during the early days of development persist today. These challenges include device-related infection, bleeding, thrombosis, cost, and patient quality of life. The main approaches of the future directions are to repair, restore, replace, or regenerate the lungs. Engineering improvements to hollow fiber membrane gas exchangers are enabling longer term wearable systems and can be used to bridge lung failure patients to transplantation. Progress in the development of microchannel-based devices has provided the concept of biomimetic devices that may even enable intracorporeal implantation. Tissue engineering and cell-based technologies have provided the concept of bioartificial lungs with properties similar to the native organ. Recent progress in artificial lung technologies includes continued advances in both engineering and biology. The final goal is to achieve a truly implantable and durable artificial lung that is applicable to destination therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justyna Swol
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Allergology and Sleep Medicine, Intensive Care Medicine, Paracelsus Medical University Nuremberg, General Hospital Nuremberg, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Norihisa Shigemura
- Division of Cardiovascular Surgery, Temple University Health System Inc., Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Shingo Ichiba
- Department of Surgical Intensive Care Medicine, Nippon Medical School Hospital, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
| | - Ulrich Steinseifer
- Department of Cardiovascular Engineering, Institute of Applied Medical Engineering, Aachen, Germany
| | - Masaki Anraku
- Department of Thoracic Surgery, The University of Tokyo Graduate School of Medicine Faculty of Medicine, Bunkyo-ku, Japan
| | - Roberto Lorusso
- Cardio-Thoracic Surgery Department - Heart & Vascular Centre, Maastricht University Medical Hospital, Maastricht, The Netherlands
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De Bie FR, Davey MG, Larson AC, Deprest J, Flake AW. Artificial placenta and womb technology: Past, current, and future challenges towards clinical translation. Prenat Diagn 2020; 41:145-158. [PMID: 32875581 DOI: 10.1002/pd.5821] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2020] [Revised: 08/24/2020] [Accepted: 08/29/2020] [Indexed: 01/12/2023]
Abstract
Extreme prematurity remains a major cause of neonatal mortality and severe long-term morbidity. Current neonatal care is associated with significant morbidity due to iatrogenic injury and developmental immaturity of extreme premature infants. A more physiologic approach, replacing placental function and providing a womb-like environment, is the foundational principle of artificial placenta (AP) and womb (AW) technology. The concept has been studied during the past 60 years with limited success. However, recent technological advancements and a greater emphasis on mimicking utero-placental physiology have improved the success of experimental models, bringing the technology closer to clinical translation. Here, we review the rationale for and history of AP and AW technology, discuss the challenges that needed to be overcome, and compare recent successful models. We conclude by outlining some remaining challenges to be addressed on the path towards clinical translation and opportunities for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Felix R De Bie
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA.,Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Marcus G Davey
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Abby C Larson
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Jan Deprest
- Department of Development and Regeneration, KU Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Alan W Flake
- Center for Fetal Research, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
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Musk GC, Usuda H, Kershaw H, Kemp MW, Sharp CR. Maternal-fetal Blood Major Crossmatching in Merino Sheep. Comp Med 2020; 70:355-358. [PMID: 32727639 PMCID: PMC7446640 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-19-000115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
To determine the incidence of ex vivo incompatibility between ovine maternal RBCs and fetal plasma, we performed cross-matching of blood samples from ewes and from lambs delivered by cesarean section. Twenty-one date-mated singleton pregnant Merino ewes were anesthetized for cesarean delivery of the fetus. At the time of delivery, paired maternal and fetal blood samples were collected and subsequently separated for storage as packed red blood cells and fresh frozen plasma. Gel column major cross matching was performed within 2 wk. All fetus-dam crossmatches were major crossmatches, combining fetal (recipient) plasma with dam (donor) RBCs. 172 individual dam-dam cross matches were performed. Two of these tests were incompatible (1.2%). In addition, 19 fetal blood samples collected immediately after cesarean delivery were crossmatched with 21 maternal samples to generate 174 maternal-fetal individual cross matches. No maternal-fetal incompatibility reactions were observed. The results of this study demonstrate that all maternal donors and fetal recipients were compatible. In addition, the incidence of an incompatible crossmatch between adult ewes was 1.2%. These data suggest that lambs may not be born with antibodies against other blood types, but rather may acquire such antibodies at some time during early life. In addition, these data suggest the risk of incompatibility reactions between ewes of a similar breed and from a single farm of origin is very low.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle C Musk
- Animal Care Services, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia; Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia;,
| | - Haruo Usuda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia
| | - Helen Kershaw
- Animal Care Services, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia
| | - Matthew W Kemp
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia
| | - Claire R Sharp
- School of Veterinary Medicine, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia
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Xiong Y, Wintermark P. Therapeutic interventions for fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS). Semin Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 25:101112. [PMID: 32303464 DOI: 10.1016/j.siny.2020.101112] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Fetal inflammatory response syndrome (FIRS) is a condition defined by systemic inflammation in the fetus, a rapid increase of pro-inflammatory cytokines into the fetal circulation (including interleukin-1 and interleukin-6), as well as a cellular response (such as increased neutrophils, monocyte/macrophages, and T cells) and the presence of funisitis. FIRS can lead to death and multisystem organ damage in the fetus and newborn. Brain injuries and subsequent risk of cerebral palsy and cognitive impairments are the most threatening long-term complications. This paper reviews the definition of FIRS, summarizes its associated complications, briefly describes the available methods to study FIRS, and discusses in more detail the potential therapeutic candidates that have been so far studied to protect the fetus/newborn from FIRS and to alleviate its associated complications and sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ying Xiong
- Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University, Department of Anesthesiology, Wuhan University, Wuhan, China; Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada.
| | - Pia Wintermark
- Division of Newborn Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Montreal Children's Hospital, Montreal, Canada; Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre, Montreal, Canada.
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18
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Usuda H, Watanabe S, Saito M, Sato S, Musk GC, Fee ME, Carter S, Kumagai Y, Takahashi T, Kawamura MS, Hanita T, Kure S, Yaegashi N, Newnham JP, Kemp MW. Successful use of an artificial placenta to support extremely preterm ovine fetuses at the border of viability. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2019; 221:69.e1-69.e17. [PMID: 30853365 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2019.03.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2018] [Revised: 02/26/2019] [Accepted: 03/04/2019] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ex vivo uterine environment therapy is an experimental life support platform designed to reduce the risk of morbidity and mortality for extremely preterm infants born at the border of viability (21-24 weeks' gestation). To spare the functionally immature lung, this platform performs gas exchange via a membranous oxygenator connected to the umbilical vessels, and the fetus is submerged in a protective bath of artificial amniotic fluid. We and others have demonstrated the feasibility of extended survival with ex vivo uterine environment therapy therapy in late preterm fetuses; however, there is presently no evidence to show that the use of such a platform can support extremely preterm fetuses, the eventual translational target for therapy of this nature. OBJECTIVE The objective of the study was to use our ex vivo uterine environment therapy platform to support the healthy maintenance of 600-700 g/95 days gestational age (equivalent to 24 weeks of human gestation) sheep fetuses. Primary outcome measures were as follows: (1) maintenance of key physiological variables; (2) absence of infection; (3) absence of brain injury; and (4) growth and cardiovascular function patterns matching that of noninstrumented, age-matched in utero controls. STUDY DESIGN Singleton fetuses from 8 ewes underwent surgical delivery at 95 days' gestation (term, 150 days). Fetuses were adapted to ex vivo uterine environment therapy and maintained for 120 hours with real-time monitoring of key physiological variables. Umbilical artery blood samples were regularly collected to assess blood gas data, differential counts, inflammation, and microbial load to exclude infection. Brain injury was evaluated by gross anatomical and histopathological approaches after euthanasia. Nine pregnant control animals were euthanized at 100 days' gestation to allow comparative postmortem analyses. Data were tested for mean differences with an analysis of variance. RESULTS Seven of 8 ex vivo uterine environment group fetuses (87.5%) completed 120 hours of therapy with key parameters maintained in a normal physiological range. There were no significant intergroup differences (P > .05) in final weight, crown-rump length, and body weight-normalized lung and brain weights at euthanasia compared with controls. There were no biologically significant differences in hematological parameters (total or differential leucocyte counts and plasma concentration of tumor necrosis factor-α and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1) (P > .05). Daily blood cultures were negative for aerobic and anaerobic growth in all ex vivo uterine environment animals. There was no difference in airspace consolidation between control and ex vivo uterine environment animals, and there was no increase in the number of lung cells staining positive for the T-cell marker CD3. There were no increases in interleukin-1, interleukin-6, interleukin-8, tumor necrosis factor-α, and monocyte chemoattractant protein 1 mRNA expression in lung tissues compared with the control group. No cases of intraventricular hemorrhage were observed, and white matter injury was identified in only 1 ex vivo uterine environment fetus. CONCLUSION For several decades, there has been little improvement in outcomes of extremely preterm infants born at the border of viability. In the present study, we report the use of artificial placenta technology to support, for the first time, extremely preterm ovine fetuses (equivalent to 24 weeks of human gestation) in a stable, growth-normal state for 120 hours. With additional refinement, the data generated by this study may inform a treatment option to improve outcomes for extremely preterm infants.
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19
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Ectogenesis as the Dilution of Sex or the End of Females? TECHNO:PHIL – AKTUELLE HERAUSFORDERUNGEN DER TECHNIKPHILOSOPHIE 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/978-3-476-04967-4_6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
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20
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Musk GC, Adams MJ, Usuda H, Kemp MW, Sharp CR. Crossmatching Maternal and Fetal Blood in Sheep. Comp Med 2018; 68:294-297. [PMID: 30037360 DOI: 10.30802/aalas-cm-17-000126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
We investigated the incidence of ex vivo incompatibility between ovine maternal RBC and fetal plasma. Time-mated singleton pregnant ewes (n = 8) underwent cesarean delivery of the fetus; at the time of delivery, paired maternal and fetal blood samples were collected and subsequently separated for storage as packed RBC and fresh frozen plasma. Gel column crossmatching was performed 3 to 4 wk later. All fetus-dam crossmatches were considered major crossmatches, combining fetal (recipient) plasma with dam (donor) RBC. The plasma of 8 fetuses was cross-matched with RBC from 5 dams; all autologous controls were negative, and all but one crossmatch (1 of 40, 2.5%) were considered compatible. In addition, the plasma of 3 dams was crossmatched with RBC from 5 dams; all autologous controls were negative; however, significant incompatibility was noted. In total, 4 of 13 (30.8%) dam-dam crossmatches were considered incompatible. The results of this initial study suggest that when a single animal receives multiple blood-product transfusions, the risk of an immunologic transfusion reaction can be reduced by ensuring that the blood products are obtained from a single donor, performing a crossmatch prior to transfusion, and the use of synthetic products to increase the oxygen carrying capacity of fetal blood.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabrielle C Musk
- Animal Care Services, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - Murray J Adams
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Haruo Usuda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Matthew W Kemp
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Western Australia, Australia
| | - Claire R Sharp
- School of Veterinary and Life Sciences, Murdoch University, Murdoch, Western Australia, Australia
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Hornick MA, Davey MG, Partridge EA, Mejaddam AY, McGovern PE, Olive AM, Hwang G, Kim J, Castillo O, Young K, Han J, Zhao S, Connelly JT, Dysart KC, Rychik J, Peranteau WH, Flake AW. Umbilical cannulation optimizes circuit flows in premature lambs supported by the EXTra-uterine Environment for Neonatal Development (EXTEND). J Physiol 2018; 596:1575-1585. [PMID: 29392729 PMCID: PMC5924826 DOI: 10.1113/jp275367] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2017] [Accepted: 01/22/2018] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is a disease of extreme prematurity that occurs when the immature lung is exposed to gas ventilation. We designed a novel 'artificial womb' system for supporting extreme premature lambs (called EXTEND) that obviates gas ventilation by providing oxygen via a pumpless arteriovenous circuit with the lamb submerged in sterile artificial amniotic fluid. In the present study, we compare different arteriovenous cannulation strategies on EXTEND, including carotid artery/jugular vein (CA/JV), carotid artery/umbilical vein (CA/UV) and umbilical artery/umbilical vein (UA/UV). Compared to CA/JV and CA/UV cannulation, UA/UV cannulation provided significantly higher, physiological blood flows to the oxygenator, minimized flow interruptions and supported significantly longer circuit runs (up to 4 weeks). Physiological circuit blood flow in UA/UV lambs made possible normal levels of oxygen delivery, which is a critical step toward the clinical application of artificial womb technology. ABSTRACT EXTEND (EXTra-uterine Environment for Neonatal Development) is a novel system that promotes physiological development by maintaining the premature lamb in a sterile fluid environment and providing gas exchange via a pumpless arteriovenous oxygenator circuit. During the development of EXTEND, different cannulation strategies evolved with the aim of improving circuit flow. The present study examines how different cannulation strategies affect EXTEND circuit haemodynamics in extreme premature lambs. Seventeen premature lambs were cannulated at gestational ages 105-117 days (term 145-150 days) and supported on EXTEND for up to 4 weeks. Experimental groups were distinguished by cannulation strategy: carotid artery outflow and jugular vein inflow (CA/JV; n = 4), carotid artery outflow and umbilical vein inflow (CA/UV; n = 5) and double umbilical artery outflow and umbilical vein inflow (UA/UV; n = 8). Circuit flows and pressures were measured continuously. As we transitioned from CA/JV to CA/UV to UA/UV cannulation, mean duration of circuit run and weight-adjusted circuit flows increased (P < 0.001) and the frequency of flow interruptions declined (P < 0.05). Umbilical vessels generally accommodated larger-bore cannulas, and cannula calibre was directly correlated with circuit pressures and indirectly correlated with flow:pressure ratio (a measure of post-membrane resistance). We conclude that UA/UV cannulation in fetal lambs on EXTEND optimizes circuit flow dynamics and flow stability and also supports circuit flows that closely approximate normal placental flow.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Grace Hwang
- Center for Fetal ResearchDepartment of Surgery
| | - Jenny Kim
- Center for Fetal ResearchDepartment of Surgery
| | | | | | | | - Sheng Zhao
- Center for Fetal ResearchDepartment of Surgery
| | | | | | - Jack Rychik
- Division of Cardiology, Department of PediatricsChildren's Hospital of PhiladelphiaPhiladelphiaPAUSA
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22
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23
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Usuda H, Watanabe S, Miura Y, Saito M, Musk GC, Rittenschober-Böhm J, Ikeda H, Sato S, Hanita T, Matsuda T, Jobe AH, Newnham JP, Stock SJ, Kemp MW. Successful maintenance of key physiological parameters in preterm lambs treated with ex vivo uterine environment therapy for a period of 1 week. Am J Obstet Gynecol 2017. [PMID: 28646647 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajog.2017.05.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 39] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Extremely preterm infants born at the border of viability (22-24 weeks' gestation) have high rates of death and lasting disability. Ex vivo uterine environment therapy is an experimental neonatal intensive care strategy that provides gas exchange using parallel membranous oxygenators connected to the umbilical vessels, sparing the extremely preterm cardiopulmonary system from ventilation-derived injury. OBJECTIVE In this study, we aimed to refine our ex vivo uterine environment therapy platform to eliminate fetal infection and inflammation, while simultaneously extending the duration of hemodynamically stable ex vivo uterine environment therapy to 1 week. STUDY DESIGN Merino-cross ewes with timed, singleton pregnancies were surgically delivered at 112-115 days of gestation (term is ∼150 days) and adapted to ex vivo uterine environment therapy (treatment group; n = 6). Physiological variables were continuously monitored; humerus and femur length, ductus arteriosus directional flow, and patency were estimated with ultrasound; serial blood samples were collected for hematology and microbiology studies; weight was recorded at the end of the experiment. Control group animals (n = 7) were euthanized at 122 days of gestation and analyzed accordingly. Bacteremia was defined by positive blood culture. Infection and fetal inflammation was assessed with white blood cell counts (including differential leukocyte counts), plasma and lung proinflammatory cytokine measurements, and lung histopathology. RESULTS Five of 6 fetuses in the treatment group completed the 1-week study period with key physiological parameters, blood counts remaining within normal ranges, and no bacteremia detected. There were no significant differences (P > .05) in arterial blood oxygen content or lactate levels between ex vivo uterine environment therapy and control groups at delivery. There was no significant difference (P > .05) in birthweight between control and ex vivo uterine environment groups. In the ex vivo uterine environment group, we observed growth of fetal humerus (P < .05) and femur (P < .001) over the course of the 7-day experimental period. There was no difference in airway or airspace morphology or consolidation between control and ex vivo uterine environment animals, and there was no increase in the number of lung cells staining positive for T-cell marker CD3+. CONCLUSION Five preterm lambs were maintained in a physiologically stable condition for 1 week with significant growth and without clinically significant bacteremia or systemic inflammation. Although substantial further refinement is required, a life support platform based around ex vivo uterine environment therapy may provide an avenue to improve outcomes for extremely preterm infants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haruo Usuda
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan.
| | - Shimpei Watanabe
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Yuichiro Miura
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Masatoshi Saito
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Gabrielle C Musk
- Animal Care Services, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Judith Rittenschober-Böhm
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; Division of Neonatology, Pediatric Intensive Care and Neuropediatrics, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hideyuki Ikeda
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Takushi Hanita
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Tadashi Matsuda
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
| | - Alan H Jobe
- Neonatology Continuing Medical Education Global Health Center, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, Cincinnati, OH
| | - John P Newnham
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia
| | - Sarah J Stock
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; Tommy's Center for Maternal and Fetal Health, MRC Center for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew W Kemp
- Division of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Western Australia, Crawley, Australia; Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine, Tohoku University Hospital, Sendai, Japan
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24
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Miura Y, Usuda H, Watanabe S, Woodward E, Saito M, Musk GC, Kallapur SG, Sato S, Kitanishi R, Matsuda T, Newnham JP, Stock SJ, Kemp MW. Stable Control of Physiological Parameters, But Not Infection, in Preterm Lambs Maintained on Ex Vivo Uterine Environment Therapy. Artif Organs 2017; 41:959-968. [DOI: 10.1111/aor.12974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2017] [Revised: 04/04/2017] [Accepted: 04/28/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Yuichiro Miura
- School of Women's and Infants’ Health; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine; Tohoku University Hospital; Sendai Miyagi Japan
| | - Haruo Usuda
- School of Women's and Infants’ Health; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine; Tohoku University Hospital; Sendai Miyagi Japan
| | - Shimpei Watanabe
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine; Tohoku University Hospital; Sendai Miyagi Japan
| | - Eleanor Woodward
- School of Women's and Infants’ Health; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Masatoshi Saito
- School of Women's and Infants’ Health; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine; Tohoku University Hospital; Sendai Miyagi Japan
| | - Gabrielle C. Musk
- Animal Care Services; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Suhas G. Kallapur
- School of Women's and Infants’ Health; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Neonatology Continuing Medical Education Global Health Center; Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center; Cincinnati OH USA
| | - Shinichi Sato
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine; Tohoku University Hospital; Sendai Miyagi Japan
| | - Ryuta Kitanishi
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine; Tohoku University Hospital; Sendai Miyagi Japan
| | - Tadashi Matsuda
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine; Tohoku University Hospital; Sendai Miyagi Japan
| | - John P. Newnham
- School of Women's and Infants’ Health; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
| | - Sarah J. Stock
- School of Women's and Infants’ Health; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Centre for Reproductive Health, Queens Institute for Medical Research; University of Edinburgh; Edinburgh UK
| | - Matthew W. Kemp
- School of Women's and Infants’ Health; The University of Western Australia; Crawley Western Australia Australia
- Center for Perinatal and Neonatal Medicine; Tohoku University Hospital; Sendai Miyagi Japan
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25
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Bird SD. Artificial placenta: Analysis of recent progress. Eur J Obstet Gynecol Reprod Biol 2016; 208:61-70. [PMID: 27894031 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejogrb.2016.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2016] [Revised: 10/18/2016] [Accepted: 11/10/2016] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
The artificial placenta (AP) has for many decades captured the imagination of scientists and authors with popular fiction including The Matrix and Aldous Huxley's "Brave New World", depicting a human surviving ex-utero in an artificial uterine environment (AUE). For scientists this has fascinated as a way forward for extremely preterm infants (EPIs) born less than 28 weeks of gestation. Early successes with mechanical ventilation (MV) for infants born above 28 weeks of gestation meant that AP research lost momentum. More recently, the gestational age limit for survival now borders on 23 weeks and corresponds to the biological milestone of lung development marked by the early canalicular stage of lung morphogenesis. The so called greyzone of 23-25 weeks represents a steep increase in mortality with decreasing gestational age and current options in neonatal care are on the fringes of efficacy for this population. A shift in thinking recognizes the vitality of EPIs as a fetus rather than a 37-40 week neonate and this has reinvigorated the concept of the AP. This review will discuss the scale of extreme preterm birth with special reference to previable infants born in the greyzone. Recent AP studies using sheep models are compared, technical obstacles discussed and future research themes identified.
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Affiliation(s)
- Stephen D Bird
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Australia.
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