Preterm birth, defined as delivery prior to 37 completed weeks of gestation, is a complex clinical condition associated with significant neonatal morbidity and mortality, can result from a range of factors including infections, multiple pregnancies, and other complications during gestation.
The risk factors for preterm birth are complex and multifaceted, with low omega-3 fatty acid levels identified as one possible contributor. Babies born prematurely face a higher likelihood of health challenges such as respiratory difficulties, developmental delays, and increased susceptibility to infections.
The earlier the birth occurs, the greater the risk of long-term complications. As such, early detection and timely intervention are essential for improving health outcomes for both mother and child.
Our AKOA1 emulsion is specifically developed to support maternal health and reduce the risk of preterm birth. Backed by clinical research, Omega-3 supplementation during pregnancy has been shown to significantly lower the likelihood of early delivery, making AKOA1 a promising intervention in prenatal care.
Omega-3 deficiency or an elevated omega-6 to omega-3 ratio for prolonged period fosters a pro-inflammatory state by increasing the synthesis of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-1β and TNF-α, while reducing the production of anti-inflammatory lipid mediators like resolvins (E- and D-series), protectins, and maresins.
These pro-inflammatory cytokines upregulate cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) expression in uterine tissues, including the decidua, amnion, chorion, and myometrium. COX-2 catalyzes the conversion of arachidonic acid into prostaglandins, primarily PGE₂ and PGF₂α, which bind to receptors in the myometrium to promote calcium influx and initiate myometrial contractions. Sustained elevation of these pathways may contribute to preterm birth.
Currently, there are no USFDA-approved treatments to prevent preterm birth, creating a significant unmet medical need in maternal and neonatal healthcare. Women who give birth prematurely have been found to have lower levels of DHA in their breast milk compared to those who deliver at term. Some clinical trials have suggested that Omega-3 supplementation may reduce the odds of early preterm birth for women with low total omega-3 status. However, the practice of measuring omega-3 status is not consistently implemented in healthcare settings, leaving a gap in preventive care. Experimental emulsion-based formulations have shown improved absorption, suggesting that emulsion may show better bioavailability when compared to DHA oils. This highlights the urgent need for specialized treatments and innovative solutions to address the challenges of preterm birth.
Preterm birth significantly contributes to both neonatal and post-neonatal mortality, with complications arising from prematurity accounting for 35% of all neonatal deaths. The complications include neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy, intellectual disability, and long-term cognitive impairments. Difficulties with language development and reduced learning capacity are also common. Respiratory conditions particularly respiratory distress syndrome (RDS) and Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia (BPD) are frequently observed and often necessitate prolonged medical support. Vision-related issues like retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) further compound the burden of prematurity. Additionally, individuals born preterm are more likely to experience mental health disorders, including higher rates of depression, anxiety, and Attention Deficit-Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Collectively, these outcomes highlight the lasting impact of preterm birth on both physical and psychological health.
AKOA1 supplementation during pregnancy contributes to a healthier omega-6/omega-3 balance.
Preterm birth complications responsible for approximately 900,000 deaths worldwide
More than 1 million children die before the age of 5 years due to preterm birth and its complications
Babies are born prematurely worldwide, which is approximately 1 in 10 children
The rate of preterm birth ranges from 4% to 16% of babies born globally
Estimated global distribution by gestational age
