The association of cerebral palsy with fetal thrombophilia, infection and inherited susceptibility to infection. [ 2004 - 2005 ]

Research Grant

Researchers: E/Pr Alastair Maclennan (Principal investigator) ,  Prof Gustaaf Dekker ,  Prof Paul Goldwater

Brief description Cerebral palsy (CP) is a group of permanent and non-progressive disorders of movement and posture that manifest early in life, resulting from damage to the immature brain. It is the most common major physical disability in childhood, affecting approximately 2 in every 1000 children born in Australia. Until recently, it was assumed that CP was a result of foetal asphyxia during birth. However, recent studies suggest that asphyxia around the time of birth accounts for less than 6% of all CP cases. In the remaining cases the neuropathology becomes established during pregnancy. Recent evidence suggests that maternal infection (bacterial and possibly viral), and also inherited fetal clotting disorders are often implicated in the development of CP. It is now possible to test stored dried blood spots from babies who subsequently developed CP. Using the modern technology of gene probes for inherited clotting disorders, markers of susceptibility to infection and bacterial or viral infection during pregnancy, some of the antenatal causes of CP may be identified. The identification of the causes of CP may lead to its prevention.

Funding Amount $AUD 123,500.00

Funding Scheme NHMRC Project Grants

Notes Standard Project Grant