Insulin-like growth factor-I and complications of prematurity: a focus on bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
At least four premature newborn complications have been reported to be associated with low serum insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) levels: bronchopulmonary dysplasia, retinopathy of prematurity, necrotizing enterocolitis and brain damage. Local IGF-I concentrations have only been reported for bronchopulmonary dysplasia and these findings show that lung IGF-I levels are clearly increased (epithelial lining fluid levels), emphasizing the fact that IGF-I is differently regulated in the general circulation or at local level. The present review discusses the meaning of the association between serum IGF-I amounts and development of complications in premature newborns. Finally, some methodological indications are reported regarding the IGF-I assay procedures. It is important to establish what are the possible relationships between blood levels and those of different compartments involved in the diseases.
Capoluongo
Ettore
E
Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Institute of Biochemistry and Clinical Biochemistry, Catholic University, Rome, Italy. ecapoluongo@rm.unicatt.it
Ameglio
Franco
F
Zuppi
Cecilia
C
D000818:Animals; D001997:Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia / Q000097:blood / Q000150:complications* / Q000378:metabolism*; D016207:Cytokines / Q000378:metabolism; D047109:Fetal Development; D006801:Humans; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D007234:Infant, Premature; D007334:Insulin-Like Growth Factor I / Q000378:metabolism*
D016207:Cytokines; D007334:Insulin-Like Growth Factor I