Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 5, 2026
08:58
Development of a Neonatal Piglet Acute Lung Injury Model Recreating the Early Environment of Preterm Infant Lungs
Published on: October 31, 2025
A Translational Preterm Piglet Model For Neonatal Sepsis
Karoline Aasmul-Olsen1, Ausra Pranevicius2, Björn Klabunde2
1Comparative Pediatrics, Department of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, University of Copenhagen; karolineaas@sund.ku.dk.
Journal of Visualized Experiments : Jove
|July 27, 2026
Summary
A new preterm piglet model mimics neonatal sepsis, revealing how glucose impacts inflammation and infection severity. This model aids research into preventing and treating sepsis in vulnerable infants.
Area of Science:
- Neonatalogy
- Infectious Diseases
- Animal Models
Background:
- Preterm infants face high risks of bacterial infections, potentially leading to sepsis.
- Neonatal sepsis involves severe inflammation and organ dysfunction, necessitating better research models.
- Current models lack the complexity to fully replicate human neonatal sepsis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To present a clinically relevant preterm piglet model for neonatal sepsis research.
- To investigate the role of energy metabolism in sepsis progression.
- To provide a platform for testing immunomodulatory interventions.
Main Methods:
- Cesarean delivery of piglets at 90% gestation, followed by neonatal intensive care.
- Intra-arterial infusion of Staphylococcus epidermidis to induce sepsis.
- Monitoring via umbilical arterial catheter for blood gases, nutrition, and sampling; defined humane endpoints.
Main Results:
- The model replicates key features of neonatal sepsis, including inflammation and organ dysfunction.
- Parenteral glucose supply modulates sepsis severity; higher glucose accelerates inflammation.
- Defined endpoints (pH ≤ 7.1, hemodynamic compromise) establish lethal sepsis criteria.
Conclusions:
- The preterm piglet model offers a robust platform for studying neonatal sepsis mechanisms.
- This model can advance the development of novel therapeutic strategies for neonatal infections.
- Understanding energy metabolism's role is crucial for managing sepsis in preterm infants.
