Neuroprotection for neonatal hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy: A review of novel therapies evaluated in clinical studies

Hypoxic–ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) is a neurological condition that is caused by insufficient oxygen and blood flow to a newborn infant's brain. In some instances it can lead to death or permanent brain damage. Although therapeutic hypothermia, or cooling therapy, can reduce the degree of brain injury in some infants with HIE, many infants with HIE will have significant lifelong disabilities despite receiving this treatment. Several promising novel neuroprotective agents are under clinical investigation in infants with HIE.