A retrospective study of SARS-CoV-2 antibodies in children with allergies.

Background: The dynamics of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection in children are continually changing. We conducted a survey of pediatric allergy patients attending our department to determine the prevalence of antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 in children.

Methods: A retrospective study was performed among children aged <11 years, referred to a pediatric allergy department between February 2020 and January 2022 with a chief complaint of allergy.

IGF1 gene is epigenetically activated in preterm infants with intrauterine growth restriction.

Background: IGF1 is a key molecule in the regulation of growth and metabolism. Low IGF1 secretion is known to cause growth restriction in childhood, as well as deregulated lipid metabolism, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes in adulthood. The IGF1 gene P2 promoter is highly methylated, resulting in low secretion of IGF1 in small infants and children.