[Research advances in the biomarkers of brain damage in preterm infants]

Area of Science:

• Neonatal neurology
• Biomarker discovery
• Neurodevelopmental disorders

Background:

• Preterm infant survival rates have improved, but brain injury incidence and associated cognitive/movement disorders are rising.
• Accurate diagnosis of brain injury in preterm infants is crucial for timely intervention and improved outcomes.
• Current clinical biomarkers like S100B protein, myelin basic protein, and neuron-specific enolase have limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review recent advances in biomarkers for preterm infant brain injury.
• To highlight novel markers for early detection and diagnosis.
• To provide evidence supporting early diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of recent research on preterm brain injury biomarkers.
• Categorization of biomarkers based on injured cell types (neuroglial, neuronal, etc.).
• Discussion of established and newly discovered biomarkers.

Main Results:

• Established biomarkers include S100B protein, myelin basic protein, and neuron-specific enolase.
• Emerging biomarkers include glial fibrillary acidic protein, neurofilament light chain protein, α-II spectrin breakdown products, chemokines, melatonin, and urinary metabolomics.
• These novel markers show potential for earlier and more accurate detection of brain injury.

Conclusions:

• Biomarkers are essential for diagnosing preterm infant brain injury.
• Novel biomarkers offer improved potential for early diagnosis, guiding treatment and enhancing neural development.
• Continued research into these biomarkers is vital for improving long-term outcomes in preterm infants.