The influence of perinatal exposures on the molecular properties of the preterm ovine diaphragm

Preterm infants have immature lungs and diaphragms and are highly susceptible to respiratory failure during the neonatal period. Adverse antenatal and postnatal exposures may adversely influence the development and integrity of the preterm diaphragm. This thesis investigates the independent and combined effects of inflammation, glucocorticoids, and mechanical ventilation on preterm diaphragm integrity using an established ovine model. The current thesis illustrates the absence of a detrimental effect of low-dose antenatal betamethasone on the fetal diaphragm, antenatal inflammation on the postnatal diaphragm, the short-term and long-term effect of postnatal dexamethasone and mechanical ventilation on postnatal diaphragm of preterm lambs.