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In this episode of The Incubator podcast, hosts Ben Courchia and Daphna Barbeau welcome Dr. David Askenazi and Dr. Tara Beck to discuss neonatal nephrology. The conversation explores the challenges of defining and diagnosing acute kidney injury (AKI) in newborns, highlighting the variability in nephron numbers at birth and the complexities of interpreting creatinine levels in the first days of life.

The guests discuss the long-term effects of neonatal AKI, the importance of follow-up care, and strategies for supporting kidney health in the NICU and beyond. They emphasize the need for a partnership between neonatology and nephrology to improve outcomes.

Dr. Askenazi introduces the Neonatal Kidney Collaborative (NKC), explaining its mission to advance research, education, and advocacy in neonatal nephrology. Dr. Beck shares her experience as a trainee involved with the NKC, highlighting the mentorship opportunities available.

The episode concludes with a look towards the future of neonatal nephrology research, including potential therapies and the evolving approach to renal replacement therapy in newborns. This informative discussion provides valuable insights for both neonatologists and nephrologists caring for vulnerable newborns.

As always, feel free to send us questions, comments, or suggestions to our email: [email protected]. You can also contact the show through Instagram or Twitter, @nicupodcast. Or contact Ben and Daphna directly via their Twitter profiles: @drnicu and @doctordaphnamd. The papers discussed in today's episode are listed and timestamped on the webpage linked below.

Enjoy!