The use of innate defence regulator peptides as novel therapeutics for hypoxic-ischemic brain injury in the newborn
| Reference number | |
| Coordinator | Göteborgs Universitet - Institutionen för neurovetenskap och fysiologi, Perinatalmedicinskt centrum |
| Funding from Vinnova | SEK 40 000 |
| Project duration | September 2014 - February 2015 |
| Status | Completed |
Purpose and goal
Lack of oxygen (hypoxia-ischemia) and inflammation are common causes of brain damage. This can lead to permanent neurological damage and premature infants are the most vulnerable. There is currently no pharmacological treatment for this condition. Our research goals for this project are to examine the underlying mechanism that leads to damage in the immature brain, and test novel drugs as neuroprotective treatments.
Results and expected effects
A clinically relevant animal model will be developed. A biobank of clinical samples from patients will be also established. This work will generate new knowledge about how hypoxia-ischemia, infection and inflammation affects brain injury and development. It will also provide support for the use of immuno-modulatory peptides as novel therapies for brain injury.
Approach and implementation
The purpose of this application was to organize a meeting between collaborators to discuss the project plan. The researcher, Dr. Jacqueline Lai, met at a conference with Dr. Mallard (University of Gothenburg) and Dr. Levy (Haard Medical School) in Salt Lake City. The discussions were extremely fruitful. An application to the VINNMER Marie Curie Incoming grant was compiled and submitted. Dr. Jacqueline Lai also visited the Mallard Laboratory for further project planning, where the proposed research will be conducted. The practicality of moving to Sweden was also investigated.