Recombinant human insulin-like growth factor 1 complex preserves lung development in mechanically ventilated preterm...

Area of Science:

• Neonatal medicine
• Pulmonary medicine
• Developmental biology

Background:

• Bronchopulmonary dysplasia is linked to low insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) in preterm infants.
• Postnatal IGF-1 replenishment is a potential strategy to prevent lung injury in premature neonates.
• Previous studies showed rhIGF-1 complex improved outcomes in preterm lambs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the efficacy of a longer treatment period (7 days) with rhIGF-1 complex in younger preterm lambs.
• To evaluate the preservation of respiratory gas exchange, lung structure, and mechanics.
• To determine the safety and effectiveness of rhIGF-1 complex for lung maturation.

Main Methods:

• Mechanically ventilated preterm lambs (128d gestation) received continuous intravenous infusion of rhIGF-1 complex or saline for 7 days.
• Lambs were randomized into treatment and control groups (10 per group).
• Respiratory gas exchange, lung structure, and VEGF-R2 mRNA expression were assessed.

Main Results:

• RhIGF-1 complex significantly enhanced respiratory gas exchange and alveolar development.
• Improved alveolar capillary growth and VEGF-R2 mRNA expression were observed.
• No adverse effects on liver or kidney function were detected.

Conclusions:

• RhIGF-1 complex demonstrates potential as a safe and effective therapy for promoting lung maturation in preterm infants.
• This treatment may reduce the incidence and severity of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
• Further research is warranted to confirm these findings in clinical settings.