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Factors affecting long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acid composition of plasma choline phosphoglycerides in preterm

A A Leaf1, M J Leighfield, K L Costeloe

  • 1Joint Academic Department of Child Health, Medical College of St. Bartholomew's Hospital, London, England.

Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|April 1, 1992
PubMed

Insights

Preterm infants show rapid declines in essential fatty acids like arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) after birth. Breast milk and fewer blood transfusions may help maintain higher levels, crucial for infant development.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal nutrition
  • Biochemistry
  • Developmental pediatrics

Background:

  • Long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFAs) are vital for infant development, particularly brain and retinal growth.
  • Choline phosphoglycerides are key components where LCPUFAs are stored and transported.
  • Preterm infants face unique nutritional challenges due to their immature physiological state.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the plasma LCPUFA composition in preterm infants from birth to their expected date of delivery (EDD).
  • To identify factors influencing the levels of arachidonic acid (AA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) in this vulnerable population.
  • To understand the implications of LCPUFA levels on infant development.

Main Methods:

  • Plasma samples were collected from 22 preterm infants at birth and EDD.
  • A subgroup of 10 infants had samples collected at regular intervals between birth and EDD.
  • LCPUFA composition of choline phosphoglycerides was analyzed using biochemical methods.

Main Results:

  • Positive correlations were observed between AA and birth weight (p<0.01), and DHA and gestational age (p<0.01) at birth.
  • Significant rapid declines in both AA (16.52% to 7.18%) and DHA (4.49% to 2.63%) were noted between birth and EDD.
  • Breast milk feeding was associated with less DHA decline (p<0.05), while fewer blood transfusions correlated with less AA decline (p<0.05).
  • Intrauterine growth retardation was linked to a greater fall in DHA levels (p<0.05).

Conclusions:

  • Preterm infants experience a significant drop in crucial LCPUFAs post-birth, contrasting with in-utero levels.
  • Factors such as feeding method and medical interventions influence LCPUFA levels in preterm infants.
  • Maintaining adequate LCPUFA levels is critical for optimal brain and retinal development in preterm infants.

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