Neonatology project receives three million euros in DFG funding

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The day we are born is the most dangerous day of our lives. For premature babies in particular, the transition from the protected environment of the womb to independent breathing can be a major challenge. The lungs must transform from a fluid-filled organ to an air-filled system in a very short time—a complex process that often does not function smoothly and for which premature babies need medical assistance in the form of positive airway pressure. Complications during this phase can have lifelong health consequences.

The research project "From EAGLE to LEOPARD" by Dr. Vincent Gaertner, neonatologist at LMU Hospital and pediatrician at Dr. von Hauner Children's Hospital, as well as group leader at the DZL site in Munich (CPC-M), addresses precisely this issue: Vincent Gaertner wants to better understand how this transition works and how premature babies can be optimally supported in the delivery room. The goal is to improve medical care during this critical phase of life, thereby increasing the chances of survival and the future quality of life of newborns.

The German Research Foundation (DFG) is funding this project with over three million euros as an Emmy Noether Junior Research Group over a period of six years.

Understanding the first breaths after birth

The project has two main objectives: firstly, to conduct more research into the natural adaptation of the lungs after birth, and secondly, to test a new clinical strategy for respiratory support in very premature babies. To better understand the physiological mechanisms behind the first breaths of life, the team is using an innovative measurement method: electrical impedance tomography (EIT). This involves a special chest strap with 32 electrodes that visualizes the distribution of air in the lungs in real time and enables detailed analyses of lung physiology. These measurements are taken immediately after birth in both full-term and very premature infants.

This should answer the following key questions:

• How do the first breaths of premature and full-term babies differ?
• What role do the method of birth (C-section vs. natural birth) and the timing of cord clamping play in postnatal adaptation?
• How do medical measures such as ventilation or different ventilation levels affect different lung volumes?

The findings will be verified in a large-scale, multicenter, randomized, controlled clinical trial, which is now being led by the Department of Neonatology at LMU Hospital.

About the Emmy Noether Programme: The DFG's Emmy Noether Programme offers outstanding young researchers the opportunity to qualify for a university professorship by independently leading a junior research group for a period of six years. Further information is available at: Link