Adhesion molecules in early neonatal life

This study investigated whether serum levels of the adhesion molecules VCAM -1, PECAM-1 and L-selectin, all of which have been implicated in normal imm une function, change soon after birth. Moreover, the dependence of serum le vels of the above-mentioned adhesion molecules on sex and mode of delivery was studied. in healthy neonates, serum levels of L-selectin, PECAM-1, and VCAM-1 do not change during early neonatal life. Thus, significant differen ces in their serum concentrations soon after birth might imply inflammatory processes or deranged endothelial homeostasis, serving as possible diagnos tic markers. Copyright (C) 2000 S. Karger AG, Basel.