Fetomaternal and Neonatal Pathologies
Axis leader :
M.D. Sylvain Chemtob
Axis leader assistant :
M.D. Cheri Deal
This line of research builds on the unique structure of the CHU Sainte-Justine Research Center in the study of abnormalities in embryonic and fetal development.The anomalies constitute the main cause of mortality in newborns and a major cause of morbidity in pediatric patients.In addition, the impairment of feto-maternal health can have lasting repercussions on postnatal development.The protective intrauterine environment may be upset by complications during pregnancy such as preeclampsia, diabetes or uteroplacental insufficiency, which can lead to premature delivery or a delay in intrauterine growth (IUGR).Prematurity can cause the death of newborns or more often long-term sequelæ ranging from cerebral palsy to more subtle neurological injuries with cognitive deficit, whereas IUGR predisposes for serious pathologies in adulthood including hypertension, atherosclerosis and type II diabetes.The patient groups targeted in this research area include:a) fetuses affected by IUGR or macrosomia;b) prematures with intrauterine cerebral hemorrhage and/or periventricular leucomalacia, retinopathy or pulmonary bronchodysplasia;c) fetuses and children with anomalies. The activities of this line of research revolve around 4 research themes.
In addition to the above-mentioned activities, for many years our area of research has dealt with certain practical aspects in order to solve problems related to prematurity.This has triggered a number of biotechnological activities in our research line.For instance, the team has concentrated on developing molecules with therapeutic potential in order to reduce uterine contractions and, therefore, preterm labor.One of the team's molecules (THG113.31) has proven to be efficient not only in animal models, but also in human uterine muscle (demonstrated by an independent group).A license has also been granted to a major Canadian biotechnology firm.
A very important activity in this regard concerns the establishment of a monitoring program for uterine contractions that predicts active labor and/or its suppression.This program now forms a part of a study supported by a Canadian-American company.In fact, the team's line of research is not only involved in academic research activities, but also in activities that are related to the commercialization of its scientific results and the transfer of technology.
