Proteomic profiling of bronchoalveolar lavage fluid in children with chronic pulmonary aspiration

Chronic pulmonary aspiration (CPA) poses a significant clinical challenge, particularly in vulnerable populations such as premature infants and children with neurodevelopmental disorders. Despite its prevalence, the underlying mechanisms driving aspiration-related lung injury remain poorly understood, complicating diagnosis and management strategies. This study aims to compare the secretory proteome of the lung in children with chronic aspirations to that of children without dysphagia, elucidating the cellular and molecular processes involved in aspiration-related lung disease. Specifically, we seek to utilize mass spectrometry-based proteomics to identify potential biomarkers and pathways associated with CPA-induced lung injury. In this prospective, cross-sectional study, bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF) samples will be collected from 50 children with confirmed CPA and 50 children without swallowing difficulties. Diagnosis of CPA will be established through clinical swallowing examination and Fiberoptic Evaluation of Swallowing (FEES). BALF samples will undergo standard diagnostic analysis for pathogen detection and immune cell count, followed by proteomic analysis. The study aims to generate a comprehensive proteomic profile of CPA-induced lung injury, potentially identifying novel biomarkers and pathways for early detection and intervention. Preliminary findings will be presented, including any significant differences in the secretory proteome between the two study groups. This research aims to enhance our comprehension of CPA-induced lung injury, potentially leading to targeted therapies.