Dynamic Changes in Serum Aquaporin-1 and Aquaporin-5 in Transient Tachypnea of the Newborn

Transient tachypnea of the newborn (TTN) is a common cause of neonatal respiratory distress, yet the role of aquaporins in its pathophysiology remains unclear. We aimed to evaluate serum aquaporin-1 and aquaporin-5 levels in neonates with TTN and their association with clinical characteristics and respiratory support parameters. This prospective study included 49 neonates (27 controls, 22 with TTN). Serum aquaporin-1 and aquaporin-5 levels were measured on the first day of life (T0) in both groups and repeated on day 3 (T3) in the TTN group using an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay. Clinical data and respiratory support requirements were recorded. Group comparisons, correlation analyses, and multivariable regression were performed. Baseline aquaporin-1 levels were lower in the TTN group than in controls (p = 0.024) and decreased further at T3 (p = 0.004). Aquaporin-5 levels were similar at T0 and increased non-significantly at T3. Aquaporin-1 decline was greater in infants requiring prolonged oxygen therapy, noninvasive mechanical ventilation, or higher mean airway pressure, and was inversely correlated with ventilation duration and mean airway pressure at day 3. Aquaporin-5 levels were higher in infants requiring shorter respiratory support. Serum aquaporin-1 and aquaporin-5 levels show time-dependent changes during the early postnatal period and may be associated with clinical course and respiratory support requirements in TTN.