Premature babies -- the effects of oxygen fluctuations

This research was completed on 30 September 2003

Project Leader	Dr S K Sedowofia, PhD, Professor N McIntosh DSc (Med) and Dr R A Minns, FRCP, FRCPH.
Location	Child Life and Health Section and the Neonatology Section, Department of Reproductive and Developmental Sciences, University of Edinburgh.
Grant awarded	12 July 2001
Start date	1 October 2001
End date	30 September 2003
Grant amount	£65,669.00
Grant code	SP3740

Valuable progress has been made in our ability to care for premature babies but a significant proportion of those who arrive very early suffer brain injuries that can result in cerebral palsy, behavioural difficulties and learning problems. This team has found that preterm infants given additional oxygen experience fluctuations in their blood oxygen levels. Although oxygen is essential for survival, preliminary studies have suggested that fluctuations in the level of oxygen might be harmful to the developing brain. This project will investigate the effects of oxygen fluctuations on the brain using a model developed in the laboratory. The aim of the work is to further improve intensive care for premature babies.