[Biochemical maturation of organs in the foetus and its induction (author's transl)]

Several biophysical and biochemical changes are prerequisites for the adaptation of the newborn to extrauterine life. Enzyme induction is the mechanism on which this adaptation of metabolism is based. The theoretical fundamentals of enzyme induction are presented, and the perinatal origin of enzymes explained by means of the example of PEP carboxykinase. Among the mose frequent disturbances of the maturing of organs are hyperbilirubinaemias and the respiratory distress syndrome of newborn. The biochemical and physical concepts underlying these disease pattens are explained, and possibilities of enzyme induction and hence acceleration of maturity are shown. On the grounds of clinical experience, enzyme induction appears to be safely established as a membrane prophylaxis.