Blood Proteomics Reveals Biomarkers for Necrotizing Enterocolitis in Neonates
Author Information
Author(s): Feng Chen, Kezhe Tan, Zhibao Lv, Faling Chen, Weijue Xu, Xiaohui Gong, Li Lu, Hailiang Sun, Qinqin Fu, Wenjun Zhuang
Primary Institution: Shanghai Children’s Hospital, School of Medicine, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Shanghai, China
Hypothesis
This study aimed to analyze differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) and assess their biological and clinical significance in the plasma of neonates with necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC).
Conclusion
The study identified key pathways involved in NEC pathogenesis and established data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry as a powerful tool for evaluating and predicting NEC formation and progression.
Supporting Evidence
- 76 differentially expressed proteins were identified between preterm infants at NEC onset and pre-NEC onset.
- Bioinformatic analyses indicated reduced protein, heme, nitrogen, and purine nucleotide biosynthesis during NEC formation.
- External datasets validated the clinical and biological relevance of the identified biomarkers.
Takeaway
Researchers studied blood samples from sick babies to find proteins that could help predict a serious condition called necrotizing enterocolitis, which affects their intestines.
Methodology
The study used data-independent acquisition mass spectrometry to analyze plasma samples from NEC infants at different time points, identifying differentially expressed proteins and validating findings with external datasets.
Potential Biases
Potential biases may arise from the limited sample size and the reliance on external datasets for validation.
Limitations
The number of NEC patients included was limited, which might impact the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
The study included preterm neonates diagnosed with NEC based on clinical, radiological, and/or histopathological evidence.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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