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Brain lactate in preterm and growth-retarded neonates
Acta Paediatrica (Oslo, Norway : 1992)
|May 1, 1995
Summary
Lactate is present in the immature human brain, particularly in preterm infants. Its concentration correlates with lower postmenstrual age and greater growth restriction, suggesting a role in brain metabolism.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Biochemistry
- Neonatalogy
Background:
- Glucose is the primary energy source for the brain.
- The role of alternative substrates like lactate in immature brains is not fully understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and concentration of lactate in the immature human brain.
- To compare lactate levels between small-for-gestational-age (SGA) and appropriate-for-gestational-age (AGA) infants.
Main Methods:
- Proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-MRS) spectroscopy was used.
- Spectra were acquired from the striatal region of sleeping, sedated infants.
- Thirty healthy preterm infants (28-41 weeks gestational age) were studied.
Main Results:
- Lactate was detected in all SGA preterm infants and most AGA preterm infants.
- Lactate concentration was inversely related to postmenstrual age.
- Higher lactate levels correlated with increased growth retardation.
Conclusions:
- Lactate is present in the immature human brain.
- Lactate levels are influenced by gestational age and growth status.
- The precise significance of lactate in neonatal brain metabolism requires further investigation.