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MicroRNA Expression Profiles in Very Preterm Infants with Patent Ductus Arteriosus: A Pilot Study
Ira Winkler1, Anna Posod1, Anna Staudt1
1Department of Paediatrics II (Neonatology), Medical University of Innsbruck, Innsbruck, Austria.
Neonatology
|June 22, 2025
Summary
MicroRNAs may predict hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA) in preterm infants. Downregulation of hsa-miR-218-5p in cord blood suggests potential as an early hsPDA biomarker.
Area of Science:
- Neonatal Medicine
- Genetics
- Biomarker Discovery
Background:
- Very preterm infants are susceptible to hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA), increasing morbidity.
- Current hsPDA management is debated, and treatments carry risks.
- Accurate prediction tools for hsPDA closure are needed to guide clinical decisions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore microRNA expression profiles in very preterm infants with and without hsPDA.
- To evaluate microRNAs as potential biomarkers for hsPDA.
Main Methods:
- Prospective enrollment of preterm infants (birth weight ≤1,250 g, gestational age <30 weeks).
- Groups: spontaneous ductus closure (control) vs. persistent hsPDA.
- MicroRNA sequencing on umbilical cord blood and week 1 infant blood samples.
Main Results:
- 25 infants included (14 control, 11 hsPDA).
- Significant downregulation of hsa-miR-218-5p observed in umbilical cord blood of the hsPDA group (FDR = 0.099).
- No significant microRNA differences detected in week 1 infant blood.
Conclusions:
- MicroRNAs show promise as biomarkers for hsPDA in preterm infants.
- hsa-miR-218-5p in cord blood may serve as an early predictive marker.
- Larger studies are required to confirm these findings and assess clinical utility.
