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Glucocorticoid Receptor Expression Pattern in Very Low Birth Weight Infants Changes Drastically within the First Week

Akane Yamamoto1, Kouji Motokura1, Kogoro Iwanaga1

  • 1Department of Pediatrics, Graduate School of Medicine, Kyoto University, Kyoto, Japan.

Hormone Research in Paediatrics
|September 28, 2022
PubMed

Insights

Glucocorticoid receptor expression in very low birth weight (VLBW) infants increases after birth. This change in glucocorticoid sensitivity may help VLBW infants survive critical postnatal events.

Area of Science:

  • Neonatal physiology
  • Endocrinology
  • Molecular biology

Background:

  • Glucocorticoid receptors (GRα and GRβ) play a crucial role in mediating the effects of glucocorticoids.
  • Understanding glucocorticoid sensitivity in newborns is vital for managing their health, especially in preterm infants.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the time-dependent changes in glucocorticoid receptor subtype expression (GRα and GRβ) in very low birth weight (VLBW) and term infants.
  • To clarify the development of glucocorticoid sensitivity after birth in VLBW infants.

Main Methods:

  • Whole blood samples were collected from VLBW and term infants at birth and on postnatal days 4-7.
  • Messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of GRα and GRβ were quantified using quantitative reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-qPCR).
  • Relative gene expression was calculated using the comparative cycle threshold method, normalizing to actin beta.

Main Results:

  • The GRα/GRβ expression ratio was significantly lower at birth in VLBW infants compared to term infants.
  • In VLBW infants, the GRα/GRβ expression ratio demonstrated a significant increase from birth to postnatal days 4-7.
  • These findings indicate a dynamic change in glucocorticoid receptor balance during the early postnatal period.

Conclusions:

  • Glucocorticoid sensitivity in VLBW infants significantly increases in the early postnatal period.
  • This rapid adaptation in glucocorticoid sensitivity is likely crucial for the survival of VLBW infants during critical postnatal challenges.
  • The study highlights the dynamic nature of endocrine adaptation in preterm neonates.
Abstract

Keywords:
Glucocorticoid receptorGlucocorticoid sensitivityHypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axisVery low birth weight infants

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