Stacey L. Crockett, Courtney D. Berger, Elaine L. Shelton, Jeff Reese
Congenital Heart Disease, Vol.14, No.1, pp. 15-20, 2019, DOI: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‐ More >