Damage to the central nervous system as a result of oxygen deprivation at birth is a major cause of life-long mental and developmental handicaps. When there is not enough oxygen in the blood (hypoxemia) the brain is deprived of oxygen. Some brain cells respond by producing Epo. Epo then binds to oxygen-deprived brain cells. This binding triggers chemical reactions within the brain cell that prevent cell death. Epo also reduces inflammation around the brain cells and acts as an antioxidant. In animal studies, recombinant Epo (rEpo) administration, even up to six hours after oxygen deprivation, reduced subsequent brain injury by 50% to 70%.

Epo has been used by neonatologists to stimulate erythropoiesis (red blood cell production) and reduce the incidence of blood transfusions. Doses of rEpo required for protection of brain cells are considerably higher than those traditionally used by neonatologists.

This study will evaluate the pharmacokinetics, biologic effect, and safety of high dose Epo in neonates with brain injury due to hypoxemia.

Within six hours of birth, each eligible infant will receive one dose of rEpo intravenously. Any infants who require a lumbar puncture during the first week of life will have levels of natural Epo and rEpo in their spinal fluid measured. Blood tests will be used to measure the antioxidant effect of Epo and the impact on red blood cell production. Neurodevelopmental outcome will be measured at 6 and 12 months of age.