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Plasma vasoactive intestinal polypeptide in the newborn infant
1Department of Surgery, Case Western Reserve University, School of Medicine, Cleveland, Ohio.
Journal of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition
|February 1, 1990
Summary
Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) levels increase significantly after feeding in newborn infants. This study investigated VIP responses to feeding in term and preterm infants, finding notable changes post-birth.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Physiology
- Gastroenterology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Vasoactive intestinal polypeptide (VIP) influences gut motility and blood flow.
- VIP is implicated in gastrointestinal issues, particularly in newborns.
- Necrotizing enterocolitis and feeding intolerance are significant concerns in preterm infants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine plasma VIP responses to feeding in healthy preterm and term newborn infants.
- To compare VIP levels in term and preterm neonates before and after feeding.
- To assess the role of VIP in neonatal gastrointestinal function.
Main Methods:
- Plasma VIP levels were measured in 38 preterm and 20 term infants.
- Blood samples were collected before and after feeding over several weeks for preterm infants.
- Term infants had cord blood and post-feeding samples analyzed; healthy adults served as controls.
Main Results:
- Term infants showed lower umbilical venous VIP than arterial VIP, suggesting placental metabolism.
- Plasma VIP levels significantly increased in term infants after birth (p = 0.001).
- Preterm infants' VIP responses to feeding were monitored over four weeks.
Conclusions:
- VIP levels exhibit dynamic changes in response to feeding in newborns.
- Understanding VIP's role is crucial for managing neonatal gastrointestinal conditions.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate VIP's function in neonatal gut physiology.