Cord Blood Research Articles

Analysis of the relationship between neonatal birth weight and meconium metabolites based on birth cohort metabolomics

Neonatal birth weight is a crucial indicator of intrauterine growth and development with important implications for child development and adult health. The birth weight of a newborn is closely linked to the nutrition and health of the mother during pregnancy as well as genetic factors. Therefore, assessing the metabolic status of the fetus in utero is greatly significant for understanding the mechanisms responsible for abnormal birth weight. While previous studies often analyzed the impact of maternal metabolism on fetal development using umbilical cord blood from pregnant women, such blood may not accurately reflect the actual intrauterine environment owing to the barrier function of the placenta; moreover, obtaining biological samples during the fetal period is challenging. Meconium, the first feces excreted by a newborn, provides ideal biological material for studying maternal and infant health. Metabolomics can reveal metabolic changes in living organisms by analyzing small molecules in biological samples; hence studying meconium samples using metabolomics technology is expected to reveal fetal metabolic changes during pregnancy, thereby providing new insights into fetal nutritional intake, growth, and development, as well as metabolic pathways related to birth weight. To gain a deeper understanding of the metabolic changes associated with birth weight, this study collected metabolomic data from the meconium of 484 newborns in the established Xiaogan birth cohort using an untargeted metabolomics technique based on liquid chromatography-high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS) and analyzed the association between meconium metabolites and birth weight. This cohort exhibited incidence rates of low birth weight (<2500 g) and macrosomia (>4000 g) of 3.3% and 7.2%, respectively, which were roughly equivalent to the national average. Orthogonal partial least squares discriminant analysis revealed significant differences between the meconium metabolomes of the low birth weight and macrosomic groups when compared to the normal weight group. We discovered significant distinctions between the differential metabolites of newborns of low birth weight and those of normal weight, as well as between macrosomic and normal weight newborns that point to disparate biological pathways. Newborns with low birth weight exhibited significantly lower levels of critical amino acids, such as glutamate and proline, compared to the normal weight group, which may be associated with placental dysfunction and maternal nutritional deficiencies. Conversely, the meconium of macrosomic newborns contained significantly elevated levels of hormone metabolites such as estrone that reflected the pathophysiological state associated with maternal metabolic diseases or excessive placental hormone levels. Our study suggests that the metabolomic profile of the meconium reflects the metabolic pathways and regulatory mechanisms at play during fetal growth and development, and offers potential metabolic biomarkers and directions for future in-depth research into diseases related to fetal development. However, this study was based solely on the Xiaogan birth cohort, which was limited to specific regions and populations. A multicenter, multiethnic, and multiregional study is expected to help validate the universality of our research findings.

The Frequency of Intraventricular Hemorrhage and its Risk Factors.

Intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH) (is the most prevalent type of cerebrovascular accident in premature infants, which can result in lasting neurological complications. The aim of this study was to ascertain the frequency of IVH and its associated risk factors within our particular context. This cross-sectional study was carried out in a tertiary neonatal intensive care unit of a maternal and neonatal hospital from September 2018 to August 2019. Premature infants under 34 weeks of age and with birth weight < 1500 grams who did not have significant congenital anomalies participated in the study. A brain ultrasound was performed by a sonologist during the first week. The infants were subsequently categorized into two groups: those with and without IVH. A comparative analysis was conducted using the chi-square test and logistic regression. A significance level of p<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Of the 205 premature infants who completed the study, IVH was reported in 107 cases (52.1%), of which 97.3% of ventricular hemorrhages were grade I and II and 2.7% accounted for severe bleeding (grade III and IV). Gestational age less than 28 weeks, weight less than 1000 g, vaginal delivery, asphyxia and resuscitation, history of intubation and mechanical ventilation, cord blood acidity, dopamine infusion, and history of fever and chorioamnionitis in the mother have been found to be significantly associated with increased risk of IVH (p<0.001). Antenatal corticosteroids decreased the risk (OR=10.63). In this study, IVH has been found to be common in infants under 1500 g of weight, but the severe form was low in frequency and was observed significantly in high-risk pregnancies.

Specific antibody responses to Qβ-displayed Plasmodium falciparum-derived UB05 and MSP3 proteins in mother-neonate couples.

Malaria blood-stage parasite is a critical pathogenic stage responsible for serious adverse outcomes in pregnant women and their neonates. Immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibody responses specific to various asexual blood-stage antigens were well reported in non-pregnant individuals. However, little is still known during placental malaria. To assess the antibody responses specific to Plasmodium falciparum-derived MSP3 and UB05 malaria vaccine candidates in mother-neonate couples, mother's peripheral blood and neonate's cord blood samples were collected at delivery. After malaria diagnostic, plasma levels of IgG and IgG subclass responses specific to UB05, MSP3 and UB05-MSP3 were determined using ELISA. As outcomes, both mothers and neonates had significantly higher IgG responses to UB05 and UB05-MSP3 compared to anti-MSP3 IgG (p < 0.05), irrespective of malaria status. Significant negative correlations were observed between IgG levels specific to the three antigens and parasitaemia (p < 0.01). Anti-UB05 and anti-UB05-MSP3 IgG levels in neonates showed a significant positive correlation with the corresponding mothers' antibodies (rs = 0.25 with p = 0.04; rs = 0.31 with p = 0.01, respectively). UB05MSP3-specific IgG3 and IgG1 subclass responses were significantly higher than the IgG4 subclass (p < 0.01). The neonates IgG1 and IgG3 levels positively correlated with the corresponding antibody subclasses of mothers. These findings suggest an association between UB05 and UB05-MSP3-specific antibody responses and malaria control during pregnancy. Maternal-foetal transfer of MSP3 and UB05-specific IgG occurs during pregnancy, suggesting the interest in the future malaria vaccination strategies in pregnant women to generate early protective immunity in baby against malaria.

Effect of mesenchymal stem cell derived from umbilical cord blood on rabbit intrauterine adhesion model

Objective: To investigate the repair effect of human umbilical cord blood mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSC) on endometrium of intrauterine adhesion (IUA) by establishing animal model. Methods: Eighteen healthy female New Zealand white rabbits were divided into a control group, an IUA group and an hUCB-MSC transplantation group according to random number table method. The control group underwent laparotomy only. The IUA group underwent IUA modeling surgery using curettage and lipopolysaccharide (LPS) cotton placed in uterine cavity for double injury. The hUCB-MSC transplantation group received the same IUA modeling surgery followed by multipoint injection of hUCB-MSC suspension (2×106 cells/ml, 500 μl) into the bilateral uterine myometrium one week after surgery. Four weeks after the IUA modeling surgery, the rabbits were euthanized and samples were collected. Hematoxylin and eosin (HE) staining and Masson staining were used to assess the number of endometrial glands and the fibrosis rate. RNA sequencing was performed on the endometrium of the IUA group and hUCB-MSC transplantation group.The mRNA and protein expression of the fibrosis markers [transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase 1 (TIMP1)] and RNA sequencing-related parameters were detected by quantitative real-time PCR (qRT-PCR) and Western blot. Results: Compared with the control group, the number of glands in IUA group decreased (26.33±1.53 vs 4.33±1.53, P<0.001), and the fibrosis rate increased (18.01%±2.21% vs 69.55%±2.42%, P<0.001), indicating successful modeling. HE and Masson staining revealed that the number of glands in the hUCB-MSC transplantation group was increased compared with that in IUA group (17.33±2.52 vs 4.33±1.53, P<0.001), and the fibrosis rate decreased (69.55%±2.42% vs 41.55%±1.99%,P=0.001). Western blot analyses of fibrosis-related proteins (TGF-β1 and TIMP1) showed elevated levels of TGF-β1 (0.91±0.05) and TIMP1 (0.99±0.01) proteins in the IUA group compared to control group (0.61±0.04, 0.68±0.07) (P=0.001, 0.015). The hUCB-MSC transplantation group exhibited reduced expression of TGF-β1 (0.69±0.04) and TIMP1 (0.62±0.08) proteins compared to the IUA group (P=0.005, 0.014). Western Blot results related to the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway [phosphorylated phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase (p-PI3K), phosphorylated protein kinase B (p-AKT)] showed that the expression of p-PI3K(1.05±0.05) and p-AKT(1.17±0.06) in the IUA group increased compared to the control group (0.78±0.03, 0.85±0.05) (P=0.002, 0.002). The expression of p-PI3K (0.74±0.02) and p-AKT (0.93±0.04) proteins in the hUCB-MSC transplantation group decreased compared to the IUA group (P=0.003, 0.005). Conclusion: hUCB-MSC can repair the damaged endometrium in rabbit intrauterine adhesion model by increasing the number of endometrial glands and improving its level of fibrosis.

Comparison of cord blood alarin levels of full-term infants according to birth weight.

To compare the cord blood alarin levels of infants in different birth weight groups with those of infantsborn to mothers diagnosed with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) who were not subgrouped according to birth weight. This prospective study was conducted between September 2023 and January 2024. Healthy term babies whose families agreed to participate in the study were divided into four groups according to their birth weight (small for gestational age (SGA), appropriate for gestational age (AGA) and large for gestational age (LGA)) and whether their mothers had GDM. There was a significant difference between the cord blood alarin levels of the AGA and SGA groups (p=0.014). There was also a significant difference between the cord blood alarin levels of the AGA and GDM groups (p=0.012). However, the cord blood alarin levels of the LGA group (whose mothers did not have GDM) were similar to those of the AGA group (p=0.394). We found evidence that alarin levels in umbilical cord blood are associated with low birth weight and GDM.

Umbilical Cord Blood-Derived Products in Autoimmune Systemic Syndromes with Severe Dryness: A Pilot Study

Background and Objectives: Human umbilical cord blood serum (HUCBS) stands out as a potent adjunct to conventional therapies for ocular surface disorders (OSDs) caused by, among many, autoimmune systemic syndromes. By expediting ocular surface regeneration and fostering epithelial integrity, HUCBS not only enhances subjective patient experiences but also improves objective clinical indicators. This makes it particularly useful in patients with corneal ulcers through ocular surface regeneration and anti-inflammatory activity. This study aims to explore the efficacy of HUCBS in patients who had previously received other treatments unsuccessfully. Materials and Methods: This study was a prospective, non-comparative, interventional case series study involving 49 patients (30 females and 19 males) aged 15–82 years with severe OSDs who were unresponsive to standard treatments. The study was conducted at the San Marco Hospital, Catania, Italy. Patients were categorized into four groups based on the etiology of their severe OSDs: Group I consisted of twenty four patients with filamentary keratitis and corneal ulcers associated with rheumatologic diseases such as Sjogren’s syndrome and systemic sclerosis; Group II comprised thirteen patients with graft-versus-host disease; Group III consisted of nine patients with corneal neurotrophic ulcers; and Group IV included three patients with Steven–Johnson syndrome. The outcomes were evaluated before and after treatment using the following assessments: OSDI (Ocular Surface Disease Index) and SANDE (Symptom Assessment in Dry Eye) questionnaires, VAS (Visual Analog Scale), Slit Lamp Examination, Esthesiometry, Lissamine Green Staining, NIBUT (Non-Invasive Break-Up Time), BUT (Break-Up Time), Fluorescein Staining with Photography and Oxford Classification, The Schirmer Test, Best-Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA), and Meibography. Results: We observed a significant improvement in the outcomes from the SANDE, VAS, and OSDI questionnaires, The Schirmer Test, BUT, BCVA, and Oxford Classification, after treatment with UCBS. Clinical variables, such as corneal inflammation, conjunctivalization, corneal neovascularization, and pain, were also considered individually. Nevertheless, pain and inflammation reduced markedly over time until complete healing was achieved in all cases. Conclusions: Our pilot study highlights the substantial efficacy of HUCBS in patients with systemic autoimmune diseases who have shown inadequate responses to prior treatments for dry eye. This underscores the need for further comprehensive investigations in this field.

Heavy Metals in Umbilical Cord Blood: Effects on Epigenetics and Child Development

Heavy metals like arsenic, mercury, cadmium, and lead are harmful pollutants that can change how our genes are regulated without altering the DNA sequence, specifically through a process called DNA methylation (DNAm) at 5-methylcytosine, an epigenetic mark that we will focus on in this review. These changes in DNAm are most sensitive during pregnancy, a critical time for development when these modifications can affect how traits are expressed. Historically, most research on these environmental effects has focused on adults, but now there is more emphasis on studying the impacts during early development and childhood. The placenta acts as a protective barrier between the mother and the baby, and by examining it, scientists can identify changes in key genes that might affect long-term health. This review looks at how exposure to heavy metals during pregnancy can cause changes in the gene regulation by DNAm in newborns, as seen in their umbilical cord blood. These changes reflect the baby’s genetic state during pregnancy and can be influenced by the mother’s environment and genetics, as well as the baby’s own genetics.

Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices of Pregnant Women and Hospital Staff Regarding Umbilical Cord Blood Banking: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

Background/Objectives: The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of pregnant women and hospital staff regarding umbilical cord blood (UCB) donation and storage to understand its limitations in clinical practice. Methods: MEDLINE, Scopus, LILACS, EMBASE, Scielo.br, and PROSPERO were searched from inception to 30 November 2023 with no geographic or language restrictions. The study eligibility criteria included cross-sectional studies that interviewed pregnant women and/or hospital staff about their knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding private or public storage. A random-effects restricted maximum-likelihood model with Freeman–Tukey Double arcsine transformation meta-analysis was carried out to calculate the pooled estimates. MOOSE guidelines were followed. STATA 14.1 was used for statistical analysis. The Newcastle–Ottawa Scale and ROBINS-I tool were used for quality and risk of bias assessments. Results: In total, 19 studies providing data for 19,904 pregnant women and 1245 hospital staff members were included. Pooled pregnant women awareness was 61% ((95% CI 0.60 to 0.62), I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 11.0 (p = 0.950)), and 61% for hospital staff (95% CI 0.58 to 0.64), I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 4.00 (p = 0.310)). In total, 57% ((95% CI 0.56 to 0.58), I2 = 0, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 4.00 (p = 0.320)) of pregnant women had a positive attitude about UCB, while 34% ((95% CI 0.32 to 0.36), I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 4.00 (p = 0.310)) were in favor of donating UCB for research and 65% ((95% CI 0.63 to 0.66), I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 4.0 (p = 0.350)) were planning UCB storage. A significant (p &lt; 0.001) preference for public relative to private banking (51% ([95% CI 0.49 to 0.54], I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 4.0 (p = 0.310)) vs. 12% ([95% CI 0.10 to 0.13], I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 4.0 (p = 0.300))) was noted for pregnant women. The same was retrievable for professionals (84% ([95% CI 0.79 to 0.88], I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 2.0 (p = 0.110)) vs. 6% ([95% CI 0.03 to 0.09], I2 = 0%, τ2 = 0.00, Q = 1.0 (p = 0.070); p &lt; 0.001)). Conclusions: Despite these efforts, lack of knowledge and positive attitudes about UCB banking remain, emphasizing the need for increasing educational programs on the subject.

Impact of fetal umbilical cord blood CD34+ cells on breast cancer cell lines: a mechanism of fetal microchimerism?

Introduction Fetal microchimerism could be involved in the regulation of breast cancer oncogenesis. CD34+ cells could be of a particular interest as up to 12% of the CD34+ population in maternal blood are of fetal origin. The aim of this research was to analyze the impact of umbilical cord blood (UCB) CD34+ on MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 breast cancer cell lines, in order to uncover novel biological mechanisms and suggest novel treatment options for breast cancer. Methods UCB CD34+ cells were obtained from healthy women at full-term delivery. Direct cultures were grown with MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. Proliferation, migration, invasion, and transcriptomic analysis of breast cancer cells were compared between cultures exposed and non-exposed to UCB CD34+ cells. Interactions between UCB CD34+ and breast cancer cells were analyzed under fluorescent microscopy. Functional analyses were generated with QIAGEN's Ingenuity Pathway Analysis (IPA) and Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (GSEA). Results Direct contact between UCB CD34+ and breast cancer cell lines induced a reduction in the proliferative capacities of MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 and diminished the migration abilities of MDA-MB-231 cells. In 3D co-culture, UCB CD34+ cells were attracted by tumor spheroids and incorporated into tumor cells. These cell-to-cell interactions were responsible for transcriptome modifications coherent with observed functional modifications. Among the cytokines secreted by UCB CD34+, IFN was identified as a potential upstream regulator responsible for the molecular modifications observed in transcriptomic analysis of MCF-7 breast cancer cells exposed to UCB CD34+ cells, as was IL-17A in MDA-MB-231 cells. Conclusion Direct cell-to-cell contact induced functional modifications in breast cancer cells. Interactions between UCB CD34+ and breast cancer cells could induce cell fusion and signal transmission via cytokines. Further analysis of direct cell-to-cell interactions should be performed at a molecular level to further understand the potential role of fetal CD34+ cells in breast cancer.

Predictive Value of Cord Blood Bilirubin for Hyperbilirubinemia in Term Neonates with ABO Incompatibility

Introduction: Jaundice affects 60% of full-term and 80% of preterm neonates. Feto-maternal ABO incompatibilities occur in 20-25% of pregnancies, but severe haemolytic disease develops in only 10%. ABO-incompatible babies have doubled the risk of jaundice requiring treatment and a 5-10 times increased risk of exchange transfusions. Objective: Aim of this study was to determine if cord blood bilirubin (CBB) can predict hyperbilirubinemia in term babies with ABO setup prior to discharge that would help to decrease readmission and subsequently complications due to jaundice. Methods: A hospital-based prospective observational study was conducted at Patan Hospital. Cord blood group and bilirubin levels were collected from newborns of O positive mothers. Babies with A positive and B positive blood groups had their CBB levels measured and were followed daily for 72 hours. Serum bilirubin was tested based on clinical judgment to detect hyperbilirubinemia and treated per NICE guidelines. Data were analysed using SPSS v21.0, Mann-Whitney test, ANOVA, and ROC analysis. Results: Among 66 cases, significant hyperbilirubinemia was seen in 7 neonates (10.6%). It was more common in B positive babies (12.2%) compared to A positive (8%). Mean CBB was 3.45 ± 0.57 in those developing significant hyperbilirubinemia. A CBB of 2.95 mg/dL had the highest sensitivity (86%), specificity (94%), and negative predictive value (98%) for predicting hyperbilirubinemia in ABO setup babies. Conclusion: Term babies with ABO incompatibility and CBB&lt;2.95 mg /dL are unlikely to need further evaluation, while those with cord bilirubin level ≥2.95 mg/dL should have frequent early follow-ups.

Timing of Maternal Stress Differentially Affects Immune and Stress Phenotypes in Progeny

Maternal stress during gestation may affect the development and responsiveness of the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA) and immune system in the progeny. Stressor type, duration and gestational stage at which the stressor occurs may all influence the short and long-term effects on the future progeny. The present study advances the characterization of the timing of gestational stress on the stress responsiveness and immune and behavioral phenotypes of the progeny. First, parity sows were hand-fed hydrocortisone acetate (stressed) or placebo (controls) during mid or late gestation. Colostrum and cord blood were collected. Blood samples were obtained from a subset of piglets (n = 36) born to these sows during lactation, pre- and post-weaning, and during an ACTH challenge. Stress and immune measures were assessed. Piglets born to sows stressed during mid-gestation had reduced measures of humoral immunity, including immunoglobulins and interleukin-4. Conversely, piglets born to late-stressed sows exhibited a delayed or dampened stress response to weaning and an ACTH challenge. They also had a skewed pro-inflammatory phenotype, as evidenced by increased interleukin-17 and tumor necrosis factor-α. Overall, these data suggest that the stage of gestation at which gestational stress occurs has differential effects on the HPA axis and immune development of the progeny, resulting in differential stress responsiveness and immune and behavioral phenotypes.

ANKS6 Variants Underlie Polycystic Kidneys in Prenatal and Neonatal Cases

Background: Nephronophthisis (NPHP) is an autosomal recessive genetic disorder that can cause early-onset kidney failure. ANKS6 plays an important role in early kidney development and encodes a protein that interacts with other proteins within the primary cilium. ANKS6 mutations are known to cause nephronophthisis 16 (NPHP-16). Little is known regarding fetal ultrasound imaging and the antenatal diagnosis of fetuses with ANKS6-associated kidney disease. Here, we report the detection of ANKS6 variants in consanguineous families with polycystic kidney antenatally and in the early stages of life. Methods: Three unrelated Saudi Arabian patients (two prenatal patients and one neonate) were investigated. These cases were referred to the hospital due to the presence of echogenic kidneys on antenatal scanning. After clinical and phenotypic evaluation, whole-exome sequencing (WES) was performed on the cord and peripheral blood to identify the molecular genetic causes associated with the echogenic kidney phenotypes. Results: Two homozygous sequence variants were detected in ANKS6. The homozygous missense novel variant ANKS6: c.1159A&gt;C was detected in Families 1 and 2. In the third family, the known homozygous loss-of-function variant ANKS6: c.907+2T&gt;A was detected. Conclusions: We identified homozygous ANKS6 variants in three families presenting with antenatal polycystic kidney disease. The findings provide an expanded clinical presentation of ANKS6 and emphasize the utility of WES in the diagnosis of echogenic kidneys in prenatal settings.

Correction to: Abstract 11: Multicomponent Cord Blood Bank Program, Beyond Transplantation.

Correction to: Abstract 11: Multicomponent Cord Blood Bank Program, Beyond Transplantation.

Development of a quantitative prediction algorithm for human cord blood-derived CD34+ hematopoietic stem-progenitor cells using parametric and non-parametric machine learning models

The transplantation of CD34+ hematopoietic stem-progenitor cells (HSPCs) derived from cord blood serves as the standard treatment for selected hematological, oncological, metabolic, and immunodeficiency disorders, of which the dose is pivotal to the clinical outcome. Based on numerous maternal and neonatal parameters, we evaluated the predictive power of mathematical pipelines to the proportion of CD34+ cells in the final cryopreserved cord blood product adopting both parametric and non-parametric algorithms. Twenty-four predictor variables associated with the cord blood processing of 802 processed cord blood units randomly sampled in 2020–2022 were retrieved and analyzed. Prediction models were developed by adopting the parametric (multivariate linear regression) and non-parametric (random forest and back propagation neural network) statistical models to investigate the data patterns for determining the single outcome (i.e., the proportion of CD34+ cells). The multivariate linear regression model produced the lowest root-mean-square deviation (0.0982). However, the model created by the back propagation neural network produced the highest median absolute deviation (0.0689) and predictive power (56.99%) in comparison to the random forest and multivariate linear regression. The predictive model depending on a combination of continuous and discrete maternal with neonatal parameters associated with cord blood processing can predict the CD34+ dose in the final product for clinical utilization. The back propagation neural network algorithm produces a model with the highest predictive power which can be widely applied to assisting cell banks for optimal cord blood unit selection to ensure the highest chance of transplantation success.

Effects of guanidine acetic acid supplementation from gestation to lactation on reproductive performance, colostrum quality, blood biochemistry, and intestinal microflora diversity of sows

This experiment aimed to study the effects of guanidine acetic acid (GAA) on reproductive performance, lactation performance and blood biochemical indices of sows, as well as the performance of offspring piglets. A total of 20 sows (Landrace × Yorkshire, parity 4) were used. Half of the sows in each parity were fed a control diet (CG; basic diet, n = 10) or GAA diet (basic diet +1 g/kg GAA, n = 10) from the 85th day of gestation until weaning. The study results are presented as follows: Supplementation of GAA from late gestation to lactation did not adversely affect sow feed intake, backfat thickness, or blood routine indexes (p &amp;gt; 0.05). GAA supplementation showed a tendency to increase the number of healthy piglets and their birth activity (p = 0.06; p = 0.08), while significantly increasing the IUGR score of piglets (p &amp;lt; 0.05). GAA supplementation significantly increased colostrum protein content (p &amp;lt; 0.05) and tended to increase daily milk yield in sows (p = 0.07). GAA supplementation increased the level of immunoglobulin A in sow colostrum (p &amp;lt; 0.05) and showed a tendency to increase proline content (p = 0.10). GAA supplementation significantly decreased triglyceride content in sow cord blood (p &amp;lt; 0.05), with no significant effects observed on HDL-C, LDL-C, TC, and GLU (p &amp;gt; 0.05). GAA supplementation significantly increased eNOS levels in sow cord blood (p &amp;lt; 0.05), while showing no significant effects on IL-6 and IL-10 (p &amp;gt; 0.05). GAA supplementation did not significantly affect the α diversity of sow intestinal flora (ACE, Shannon, Chao1, Simpson, observed_otus, pielou_e, and good_cover), but PCoA analysis revealed differences in intestinal flora structure between groups. Additionally, GAA decreased the relative abundance of Sarciha and unidentified_ruminococcaceae and increased the relative abundance of Lactobacillus, Parabacteroides, and Pedobacter in the gut. GAA boosts nitric oxide synthase in sows’ umbilical cord blood, enhancing placental blood vessel development. This improves piglet health and vitality, increases beneficial gut bacteria (Lactobacillus, Parabacteroides, Pedobacter), and raises colostrum protein levels and lactation volume, leading to better piglet growth and performance.

Association Between Prenatal Exposure to Organochlorine Pesticides and Telomere Length in Neonatal Cord Blood

Objectives: Environmental exposure may affect the telomere length (TL) of newborns, which is considered as an early biomarker indicating susceptibility for later life diseases. However, the effects of prenatal organochlorine pesticide (OCP) exposure on newborn TL remain unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between prenatal exposure levels of OCPs during pregnancy and TL in neonatal cord blood. Methods: A total of 168 mother–infant pairs from a birth cohort in Wuhan, China, were included this study. The concentrations of hexachlorocyclohexanes (HCHs, including β-HCH, α-HCH, and γ-HCH), p,p’-dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane (p,p’-DDT) and its metabolites (p,p’-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethane, p,p’-DDD; p,p’-dichlorodiphenyldichloroethylene, p,p’-DDE) were measured in cord blood. The associations between the OCPs and the TL in newborns were analyzed by a generalized linear regression model. Stratified analyses by newborn sex, maternal gestational weight gain, and pregnancy body mass index (BMI) were performed to evaluate if the associations were modified by these factors. Results: The detection rates of various OCPs ranged from 50.9% to 100.0%. The median concentration of p,p’-DDE was the highest (33.90 ng/g lipid), followed by β-HCH (8.67 ng/g lipid), and the median concentrations of the other OCPs were between 0.12 and 0.33 ng/g lipid. Among the all newborns, a two-fold increase in the γ-HCH concentration in the cord blood was significantly associated with a 0.024 (95% CI: −0.041, −0.007) decrease in the TL. After stratification by newborn sex, the inverse association between γ-HCH and the TL was only statistically significant in boys, but not in girls (P for interaction &lt;0.05). In addition, after stratification by pre-pregnancy BMI, β-HCH and p,p’-DDT concentrations were significantly associated with a decreased TL in the overweight pre-pregnancy BMI group [−0.111 (95% CI: −0.203, −0.018) and −0.036 (95% CI: −0.049, −0.023), respectively]. Conclusions: Prenatal exposure to OCPs during pregnancy was associated with a decreased neonatal telomere length, which may be affected by the newborn sex and pre-pregnancy BMI. These findings may provide new insights into the mechanisms underlying OCP-induced adverse health effects.

Preserving Stem Cells for Potential Use in Future Reparative Medicine

With its enormous potential for regenerative medicine and therapeutic applications, stem cell preservation represents a major breakthrough in biomedical science. Stem cells are gathered, processed, and stored under carefully monitored circumstances in order to preserve their viability for potential use in the future. Because they may differentiate into a variety of cell types, stem cells—especially those derived from sources like umbilical cord blood—are essential for both therapeutic and research uses. An essential function of cord blood banking is to offer a plentiful supply of immune system cells that may be stored for potential future therapeutic applications. Immunological deficits, osteoarthritis, Parkinson's disease, and heart failure are just a few of the conditions for which stem cell treatments have shown promise. Notwithstanding the promise, there remain obstacles such immunological rejection and the need for more research to fully comprehend the development and functionality of stem cells. It is essential for the general public to be informed about stem cell treatments and cord blood banking in order for expectant parents to make well-informed decisions. Future advancements in the subject depend heavily on resolving ethical issues and enhancing the effectiveness of stem cell-based therapies. To fully realise the promise of stem cell preservation in conventional medicine, more research, creativity, and international cooperation are required.

Hemoglobin-oxygen affinity changes in neonatal blood transfusions: RBC selection insights.

Despite preterm newborns often requiring blood transfusions, we have an incomplete understanding of the impact of adult packed red blood cell (pRBC) transfusions on fetal red blood cell (RBC) oxygen affinity. We investigated the influence of adult pRBC on oxygen binding in fetal RBCs obtained from the umbilical cord of preterm newborns. This included exploring the influence of the biological age of adult pRBCs on the oxygen affinity of fetal blood. Cord blood samples from preterm infants were titrated with young (Y-RBC) and old (O-RBC) adult pRBCs using an in vitro transfusion model. Parameters, including oxygen affinity (p50), hemoglobin variants, and red blood cell indices, were measured. The titration of cord blood with adult pRBCs (n = 19) resulted in a concentration-dependent decrease in p50, indicating an increased oxygen affinity. Hemoglobin variant analysis revealed a shift in composition, with a decrease in fetal hemoglobin (HbF) and an increase in adult hemoglobin (HbA) following titration. The impact of biological age was evident, as O-RBCs had a more pronounced effect on p50 values compared to Y-RBCs. Understanding the physiologic implications of transfusing preterm infants with adult pRBCs is important for optimizing transfusion practices in newborns. In an in vitro model, titrating adult pRBC into fetal blood significantly affects oxygen binding Oxygen affinity of fetal blood is significantly increased after titration of adult pRBC. Compared to older RBC subpopulations of adult pRBC, oxygen-binding properties of younger RBC subpopulations of adult pRBC more closely approximate the oxygen affinity of fetal blood. This work highlights the importance of investigating the influence of adult pRBC transfusion on fetal RBC oxygen binding. This may have implications for morbidities in the newborn period related to oxygen physiology.

Promotion of nerve regeneration and motor function recovery in SCI rats using LOCAS-iPSCs-NSCs

BackgroundSpinal cord injury (SCI) is a severe traumatic spinal condition with a poor prognosis. In this study, a scaffold called linearly ordered collagen aggregates (LOCAS) was created and loaded with induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs)-derived neural stem cells (NSCs) from human umbilical cord blood derived mesenchymal stem cells (hUCB-MSCs) to treat SCI in a rat model.MethodsThe rats underwent a complete transection SCI resulting in a 3-mm break at either the T9 or T10 level of the spinal cord.ResultsScanning electron microscope analysis revealed a uniform pore structure on the coronal plane of the scaffold. The LOCAS had a porosity of 88.52% and a water absorption of 1161.67%. Its compressive modulus and stress were measured at 4.1 MPa and 205 kPa, respectively, with a degradation time of 10 weeks. After 12 weeks, rats in the LOCAS-iPSCs-NSCs group exhibited significantly higher BBB scores (8.6) compared to the LOCAS-iPSCs-NSCs group (5.6) and the Model group (4.2). The CatWalk analysis showed improved motion trajectory, regularity index (RI), and swing speed in the LOCAS-iPSCs-NSCs group compared to the other groups. Motor evoked potentials latency was lower and amplitude was higher in the LOCAS-iPSCs-NSCs group, indicating better neural function recovery. Histological analysis demonstrated enhanced neuronal differentiation of NSCs and nerve fiber regeneration promoted by LOCAS-iPSCs-NSCs, leading to improved motor function recovery in rats. The LOCAS scaffold facilitated ordered neurofilament extension and guided nerve regeneration.ConclusionsThe combination of LOCAS and iPSCs-NSCs demonstrated a positive therapeutic impact on motor function recovery and tissue repair in rats with SCI. This development offers a more resilient bionic microenvironment and presents novel possibilities for clinical SCI repair.

Evaluation the Impressionability of Acellular Scaffolds in Presence of Different Combination of Umbilical Cord Blood Stem Cells and Platelet Rich Fibrin in Repair of Knee Defects in Rabbit (Novel Method with Xeno-Material Elements

Background: Currently, the use of xenogeneic and allogeneic compounds in the treatment of musculoskeletal diseases is common. Repairing bone and cartilage remains a significant challenge for orthopedic surgeons. One of the principal goals of tissue engineering is the development of appropriate scaffolds that can promote tissue regeneration. Various cells and genes are involved in bone and cartilage regeneration, and new scaffolds can induce these processes during osteoregeneration. Objectives: The aim of this study is to evaluate the effects of umbilical cord blood stem cells (USCs) and platelet-rich fibrin (PRF) using acellular scaffolds in the repair of knee defects in rabbits. Methods: In this study, the femoral patella of 12 male New Zealand rabbits was drilled, and they were divided into four groups: (1) control (rabbits with femoral defects), (2) acellular osteochondral (AO), (3) AO + PRF, and (4) AO + USCs / platelet-rich fibrin. Different scaffolds were implanted into their knees, and after six months, histological evaluations were conducted. To further investigate the effects of scaffolds on bone and cartilage, gene expression levels of Col 1, Col X, Runx2, SOX9, and ALP were measured using real-time PCR. Results: All the implanted materials contributed to knee repair. In terms of statistical analysis, the use of USCs and platelet-rich fibrin with natural scaffolds such as Acellular Osteochondral provided better results for repairing bone and cartilage. The evaluation of specific bone regeneration genes (COLI, RUNX2) and the histological results from the implanted site in experimental osteochondral defects indicated that the most effective knee repair occurred in the group treated with cell-free osteochondral scaffolds, USCs, and platelet-rich fibrin. Conclusions: This study demonstrates that the combination of biomaterials and xenografts can accelerate the regeneration process.