STARFISH: Sustained inflammaTion in preterm infAnts and multioRgan dysFunctIon correlateS witH long term outcomes

Preterm birth describes babies born before 37 weeks an is the world's leading cause of death in children less than 5 years old. Babies born before 32 weeks have higher risks of injury to their brain, kidneys, lungs, heart and more infections. Although clinical care of these issues in the neonatal period is well defined there are few guidelines and evidence for other organ follow up in childhood. We aim to develop and implement guidelines for health care workers and families on detailed follow up after preterm delivery.

Inflammation is the body's normal reaction to infection or injury and although is essential for resolving infections it can also cause damage the body. Inflammation is an important factor in brain injury of preterm newborns and also affects their heart lungs and other parts of their body. We will predict outcome at 2 years using new techniques on samples collected at birth. This would help parents with planning health needs for their baby rather than waiting until any issues arise later on. By understanding inflammation and infection in preterm babies we can find methods to decrease the negative effects and improve outcomes in the future for babies and families.

Award Date

01 July 2022

Award Value

€369,950.00

Principal Investigator

Professor Eleanor Molloy

Host Institution

Trinity College Dublin

Scheme

Investigator Led Projects