NICHD Cooperative Multicenter Neonatal Research Network

University Of New Mexico Health Scis Ctr, Albuquerque NM

Investigators

Linked publications & trials

Abstract

DESCRIPTION (provided by applicant): The University of New Mexico proposes to continue to help the NICHD Neonatal Research Network achieve its primary objective of advancing the field of Neonatal-Perinatal Medicine through a network of academic centers performing rigorous, multi-center clinical protocols to investigate the safety and efficacy of treatment and management strategies for newborn infants. UNM has shown its commitment to all facets of the Network mission. The PI, Kristi Watterberg, and Alternate PI, Robin Ohls, have extensive experience in designing and implementing clinical studies, both independently and within the Network. Dr. Watterberg is PI for a planned RCT of hydrocortisone to treat BPD (approved by the NRN advisory board), serves on the Protocol Review Subcommittee which provides critical peer review for Network studies, is Vice-Chair of two protocol subcommittees, and has brought additional investigators and protocols to the Network. Dr. Ohls serves on protocol subcommittees, participates in protocol development, and continues her independent research, including a multicenter RCT of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (PI) with NIH-funded neurodevelopmental outcomes assessments. Additional UNM investigators include Erika Fernandez (Supplemental Award) who developed a protocol, Hydrocortisone Treatment of Hypotension in Term and Late Preterm Infants, has completed the first, observational, phase and is planning the second phase, an RCT. Andrea Duncan and Jean Lowe are conducting an ancillary study to assess the correlation of working memory at 18-22 months with executive function at school age. Additional strengths include large under-represented Hispanic and Native American populations (53% and 22% of UNM enrollment in the generic database (GDB)); a statewide outreach and transport system resulting in >85% of VLBW infants being inborn; a General Clinical Research Center Pediatric Scatterbed Program (directed by Dr. Ohls) now transitioning to a Clinical and Translational Science Center; and a comprehensive Developmental Care program, resulting in a GDB follow-up rate of 92%. The facilities, programs and patient populations at UNM, together with the expertise and experience of its investigators, make UNM a worthy continuing contributor to the Neonatal Research Network.