Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia and Oxidative Stress in the Newborn

Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is a major cause of respiratory morbidity in preterm infants. The “new BPD” is the form currently observed in very preterm infants, related to disrupted and impaired lung development, and characterized by decreased alveolarization and impaired capillary development. Prematurity, oxygen toxicity, inflammation, mechanical ventilation, and surfactant deficiency are major determinants for BPD pathogenesis. Oxidative stress (OS) and inflammation are strictly interrelated originating a vicious circle that self-amplifies and ultimately leads to the damage of the immature lung. This chapter focuses on the role of OS on the lung injury and analyzes the most recent biomarkers in clinical studies. The comprehension of molecular basis of BPD is crucial for expanding the current possibilities for prevention and treatment and discovering new strategies for this condition.