The role of antimicrobial peptides in the pathogenesis of pneumonia in preterm ınfants with perinatal encephalopathy
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.15574/PP.2025.3(103).5664Keywords:
preterm newborns, perinatal encephalopathy, pneumonia, antimicrobial peptidesAbstract
Aim. In this study, the role of antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) in the pathogenesis of pneumonia in preterm infants with perinatal encephalopathy was investigated.
Materials and methods. For this aim, the concentrations of β1-defensin, lactoferrin, calprotectin, fecal calprotectin, and cathelicidin were analyzed using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) in 29 preterm infants with perinatal encephalopathy but without pneumonia or other infectious complications, and in 20 preterm infants with perinatal encephalopathy complicated by pneumonia. The comparison group consisted of 15 practically healthy preterm infants. The control group consisted of 16 full-term, practically healthy infants.
Results. The obtained results demonstrated that, in preterm infants with perinatal encephalopathy complicated by pneumonia, the serum concentration of calprotectin was 4.1-fold higher, β1-defensin - 3.2-fold higher, cathelicidin - 2.0-fold higher, lactoferrin - 4.0-fold higher, and fecal calprotectin - 3.9-fold higher compared to practically healthy preterm infants, with all differences being statistically significant. A negative correlation was found between AMP levels and gestational age, whereas positive correlations were observed with the clinical severity of the disease, the degree of intraventricular hemorrhage in the brain, and indicators of respiratory failure. In addition, positive correlations were identified among lactoferrin, cathelicidin, calprotectin, and defensin levels.
Conclusion. Thus, AMPs play a crucial role in the pathogenesis of postnatal pneumonia developing in the context of perinatal encephalopathy, with their secretion increasing in a compensatory manner to form an essential component of the primary defense line against infection.
The study was conducted in accordance with the principles of the Declaration of Helsinki. The study protocol was approved by the institution’s Local Ethics Committee. The informed consent was obtained from patients.
The authors declare no conflict of interest.
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