Hope on the Horizon for Preterm Babies

Hope on the Horizon for Preterm Babies

Australian researchers have discovered a potential new lifeline for the tiniest and most vulnerable newborns. Scientists at Monash Children’s Hospital have successfully collected and reinfused umbilical cord blood cells in extremely premature babies, offering a glimmer of hope for preventing brain injuries.

This pioneering research has successfully demonstrated the feasibility of using a baby’s own cord blood stem cells as a potential treatment for extremely premature infants (born before 28 weeks). The trial demonstrated that umbilical cord blood stem cell collection and reinfusion is feasible and also well-tolerated in these vulnerable babies. Premature babies are at a high risk of brain injuries that can lead to lifelong challenges like cerebral palsy. By using their own cord blood stem cells, researchers believe they might be able to provide a natural ‘protective shield’ for these vulnerable infants’ developing brains.

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