Investigating biomarkers for early prediction of bronchopulmonary dysplasia in preterm infants
Official title: The Role of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), Airway Mucins and Microbiome in the Development of Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia and the Feasibility of Exhaled Breath VOCs Analysis as an Early Detection Tool
Run by University Hospital, Antwerp · NCT06342752 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is trying to find early signs that can help predict if premature babies will develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia, using samples from their breath, throat, and placenta.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 0 Days to 3 Days |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 140 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Hospital, Antwerp Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Edegem, Antwerp) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 14, 2024 |
| Main results expected | September 2026 |
| Study ends | September 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 9, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06342752 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are infants born at a gestational age of less than 30 weeks.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with major congenital defects or unstable conditions as determined by their neonatologist may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to identify early biomarkers associated with bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) in infants born at less than 30 weeks gestational age. Researchers will collect various samples, including breath, throat swabs, and placental samples, to analyze volatile organic compounds, airway mucins, and the microbiome. The study will monitor infants for the development of BPD, diagnosed at 36 weeks postmenstrual age based on respiratory support needs. Follow-up visits at 6 and 12 months will assess lung function and microbiome composition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to earlier identification and targeted interventions for infants at risk of developing BPD, potentially improving outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using biomarkers for early prediction of BPD is promising, it remains largely novel and untested in this specific context.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Born at a gestational age \< 30 weeks Exclusion Criteria: * Major congenital defect or disorder * Patients with an unstable general condition as deemed by the attending neonatologist
Where it's running
-
University Hospital Antwerp
Edegem, Antwerp, Belgium Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Antonius Mulder, MD, PhD,prof — University Hospital Antwerp, Belgium
- Study coordinator: Inès Ghys, MD
- Email: ines.ghys@uantwerpen.be
- Phone: +3232655230
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Lung Ultrasound Score to predict BPD in very preterm babies
This study tests whether lung ultrasound scores in the first two weeks of life can predict which extremely preterm babies will develop bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
-
Caffeine in pregnancy: how the mother and baby handle it during delivery
This study tests how caffeine is processed in pregnant people and how much reaches the baby when given shortly before delivery.
-
IVIG for bronchopulmonary dysplasia in infants born at 28 weeks or earlier
This trial will try intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) given over five days to see if it helps very preterm infants (≤28 weeks) who show early signs of bronchopulmonary dysplasia.
-
High-energy DHA/ARA-enriched human milk in the first 2 weeks to lower lung problems in extremely preterm babies
This trial tests whether giving DHA/ARA-enriched, fortified human milk in the first 14 days after birth helps extremely preterm infants breathe easier and have better lung function.
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Reduced versus higher daily fluids to prevent bronchopulmonary dysplasia in very preterm babies
This tests whether giving smaller daily fluid volumes from day 8 of life (about 135 mL/kg/day) instead of larger volumes (about 165 mL/kg/day) lowers the chance of developing BPD or dying before 36 weeks in babies born before 30 weeks.
-
Using IVIG to treat bronchopulmonary dysplasia in premature infants
This study is testing if a special immune treatment called IVIG can help premature babies with breathing problems caused by bronchopulmonary dysplasia feel better.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.