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Project

Pulmonary function and -phenotype in intrauterine growth restriction and bronchopulmonary dysplasia

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia remains a major problem in both developing and developed countries. With the advancement of medical science, more premature infants are surviving, but developing chronic lung disease as a consequence. Many infants born premature, are also growth restricted due to various reasons. Intrauterine growth restriction is widely recognised as an independent risk factor for developing bronchopulmonary dysplasia. A rabbit model combining preterm delivery with post-natal hyperoxia exposure has been established by previous researchers as a model of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. In this project, we will be expanding on the current preterm rabbit bronchopulmonary dysplasia model by inducing foetal growth restriction prior to preterm delivery. This will allow us an opportunity to better understand the relationship between multiple insults (both pre- and postnatally) and the development of bronchopulmonary dysplasia. A better grasp of pathophysiology and pathology by studying lung function and phenotype, creates opportunities to study novel therapeutics and interventions to prevent and treat bronchopulmonary dysplasia, and subsequently improve morbidity and mortality.

Date:19 Oct 2021 →  Today
Keywords:Bronchopulmonary dysplasia, Intrauterine growth restriction, Rabbit model, Premature, Preterm
Disciplines:Neonatology
Project type:PhD project