Related Experiment Video

Updated: May 16, 2026

Modeling Encephalopathy of Prematurity Using Prenatal Hypoxia-ischemia with Intra-amniotic Lipopolysaccharide in Rats
07:36

Modeling Encephalopathy of Prematurity Using Prenatal Hypoxia-ischemia with Intra-amniotic Lipopolysaccharide in Rats

Published on: November 20, 2015

An overview of risk factors for poor neurodevelopmental outcome associated with prematurity

Tao Xiong1, Fernando Gonzalez, De-Zhi Mu

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, 610041, China.

World Journal of Pediatrics : WJP
|November 16, 2012
PubMed

Insights

Preterm birth complications impact infant neurodevelopment. Early gestational age, birth weight, and other factors significantly predict long-term neurological outcomes in preterm infants.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatology
  • Neuroscience
  • Developmental Pediatrics

Background:

  • Preterm birth is a leading cause of infant mortality and morbidity.
  • Despite improved survival rates, preterm infants often experience persistent neurodevelopmental challenges.
  • Understanding factors influencing neurodevelopment is crucial for this vulnerable population.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review factors associated with neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants.
  • To identify key predictors of long-term neurological health in this cohort.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature search of PubMed for English language studies.
  • Inclusion of 100 relevant publications on neurodevelopmental outcomes in preterm infants.

Main Results:

  • Gestational age and birth weight are primary predictors of poor neurological outcomes.
  • Brain structure, infections, male gender, and NICU course also impact development.
  • Prenatal, postnatal, and lifelong biological and socioeconomic factors influence brain development trajectory.

Conclusions:

  • Neurodevelopmental issues remain prevalent in preterm infants.
  • Early identification of predictive factors and development of neuroprotective therapies are essential.
  • Multidisciplinary collaboration is needed to improve outcomes for preterm infants.
Abstract

More Related Videos

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale19:15

Assessment and Evaluation of the High Risk Neonate: The NICU Network Neurobehavioral Scale

Published on: August 25, 2014

A Rat Model of Mild Intrauterine Hypoperfusion with Microcoil Stenosis06:19

A Rat Model of Mild Intrauterine Hypoperfusion with Microcoil Stenosis

Published on: January 7, 2018

Related Concept Videos

Teratogenicity01:07

Teratogenicity

The ability of a drug to produce structural deformations and functional abnormalities in the developing embryo or the fetus is called teratogenicity, and the drug producing this effect is known as a teratogen. Teratogenic effects include stillbirth, miscarriage, intrauterine growth restriction, and neurocognitive delay. A teratogen may affect the embryo at different stages of development, which is important in determining the type and extent of the damage. During blastocyst formation, the early...
Neurulation01:30

Neurulation

Neurulation is the embryological process which forms the precursors of the central nervous system and occurs after gastrulation has established the three primary cell layers of the embryo: ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. In humans, the majority of this system is formed via primary neurulation, in which the central portion of the ectoderm—originally appearing as a flat sheet of cells—folds upwards and inwards, sealing off to form a hollow neural tube. As development proceeds, the anterior...
Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder01:30

Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder

Attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. It affects approximately 5-8% of children globally, with around 60-70% of cases persisting into adulthood. ADHD has significant implications for educational attainment, social interactions, and occupational success.
Diagnostic Criteria and Symptoms
To diagnose ADHD, symptoms must manifest before age 12 and be evident across multiple settings.
Development of the Oral Microbiota01:28

Development of the Oral Microbiota

The establishment of the oral microbiome begins before birth, challenging the long-held belief that the fetal oral cavity is sterile. The presence of oral microbes such as Streptococcus and Fusobacterium in amniotic fluid suggests that microbial exposure may occur in utero, potentially through translocation from the maternal oral or gastrointestinal tract. This early colonization primes the neonatal immune system and sets the stage for subsequent microbial succession. Maternal health,...
Factors Affecting Drug Response: Overview01:21

Factors Affecting Drug Response: Overview

When it comes to infants and young children, they are typically administered smaller doses of medication in comparison to adults. This is primarily because their organ functions still need to fully develop, meaning their bodies are not as efficient at metabolizing or eliminating drugs. Additionally, their blood-brain barrier is more permeable than in adults. As a result, high concentrations of drugs can easily penetrate the central nervous system (CNS), potentially leading to neurological...
Gut-Brain Axis01:22

Gut-Brain Axis

The gut–brain axis is a bidirectional communication system that connects the gastrointestinal tract and the brain. This interaction is mediated through multiple pathways, including the vagus nerve, hormonal signals, immune responses, and chemical messengers produced by gut microbes.Microbial Contributions to Brain FunctionGut microbiota contributes significantly to brain function by producing neuroactive compounds. These include neuroactive compounds that influence neurotransmitters such as...