The miniNO project has made significant progress in understanding the impacts of altered minipuberty on prematurely born individuals. Initially, a mouse model was created to simulate preterm birth, allowing researchers to study minipuberty in premature and Nos1-deficient mice. This research established a link between altered minipuberty and various mental and non-mental, physical health issues. Recently, the project has focused on testing nitric oxide (NO) treatment during minipuberty to address these developmental problems and improve neurodevelopment. In parallel, securing all necessary ethical approvals the clinical study was initiated. Fullterm infants or infants with alterations of minipuberty (prematurely born or with congenital hypogonadotropic hypogonadism), receiving or not NO supplementation therapy are currently being enrolled in the miniNO prospective cohort in the three collaborative hospitals, with blood samples collected for hormonal assessment as well as DNA and RNA sequencing. Protocols for assessing metabolic, cognitive and sensory functions in infants have been implemented. Socioeconomic factors are also being explored. In parallel, long-term studies involving pre-existing cohorts are underway, examining the effects of NO/sildenafil treatment on mental and physical health in cohorts followed up to age ten. Biomarker validation has progressed, with improved gene detection techniques generating data for numerous samples. Throughout the project, effective management and communication strategies have been employed, ensuring smooth operations and promoting the project's visibility through regular updates and activities. Overall, the miniNO project is advancing our understanding of minipuberty's role in the health of prematurely born individuals and developing potential interventions to improve their long-term outcomes.
