Open Access

ARTICLE

Molecular and mechanical factors contributing to ductus arteriosus patency and closure

Stacey L. Crockett, Courtney D. Berger, Elaine L. Shelton, Jeff Reese

Mildred T. Stahlman Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, Nashville, TN

* Corresponding Author: Jeff Reese MD, Mildred T. Stahlman Division of Neonatology, Department of Pediatrics, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, 1135 Light Hall/MRB IV Bldg., 2215 B Garland Ave., Nashville, TN 37232‐0656. Email:

Congenital Heart Disease 2019, 14(1), 15-20. https://doi.org/10.1111/chd.12714

Abstract

Regulation of the ductus arteriosus, an essential fetal vessel connecting the pulmo‐ nary artery and aorta, is complex. Failure of this vessel to close after birth may result in a persistent left‐to‐right shunt through the patent ductus arteriosus, a condition associated with significant morbidities. Numerous factors contribute to the shift from fetal ductus patency to postnatal closure, requiring precise coordination of molecular cues with biomechanical forces and underlying genetic influences. Despite significant advances, questions remain regarding signaling dynamics and the natural time course of ductus closure, particularly in preterm neonates. This review highlights the contri‐ butions of early investigators and more recent clinician scientists to our understanding of the molecular and mechanical factors that mediate ductus patency and closure.

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