Transcriptome analysis defines myocardium gene signatures in children with ToF and ASD and reveals disease-specific molecular reprogramming in response to surgery with cardiopulmonary bypass.

Background: Tetralogy of Fallot (ToF) and Atrial Septal Defects (ASD) are the most common types of congenital heart diseases and a major cause of childhood morbidity and mortality. Cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB) is used during corrective cardiac surgery to support circulation and heart stabilization. However, this procedure triggers systemic inflammatory and stress response and consequent increased risk of postoperative complications.