The epigenome is sometimes referred to as the “software” or “operating system” of the genome. It comprises small chemical modifications to DNA and the proteins that make up our chromosomes, and controls the activity of all the genes within the genome. During early life, as our organs develop, the epigenome guides and changes along with […]
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Revised criteria lead to more accurate screening for eye disease in premature infants
A multicenter group of 41 hospitals led by researchers at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP) has confirmed that an improved method for predicting retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), a leading cause of blindness in children, was able to reduce the number of babies having invasive diagnostic examinations by nearly a third, while raising disease detection up […]
‘Miracle baby’ born four months premature battles deadly conditions
‘Miracle’ baby boy who was born four months premature weighing just 1lb 15oz is thriving after beating four life-threatening illnesses including sepsis Little Ollie Harrison born at just 26 weeks and weighed less than a bag of sugar Ollie was placed on ventilator and spent 15 weeks battling conditions in hospital But he’s back home in […]
Scientists developing way to help premature babies breathe easier
Researchers suggest a possible cell-based therapy to stimulate lung development in fragile premature infants who suffer from a rare condition called Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD), which in the most severe cases can lead to lifelong breathing problems and even death. Scientists at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center report in the American Journal of Respiratory and Critical […]
Premature brains develop differently in boys and girls
Brains of baby boys born prematurely are affected differently and more severely than premature infant girls’ brains. This is according to a study published in the Springer Nature-branded journal Pediatric Research. Lead authors Amanda Benavides and Peg Nopoulos of the University of Iowa in the US used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans as part of […]