Alterations in angiogenic factors related to preterm birth, such as disruption of vascular endothelial growth factor and vascular/nitric oxide signaling, can lead to structural changes of the cardiorespiratory system.38,39 The role of inflammatory changes in the genesis of preterm birth and the evolution of neonatal lung disease and brain injury is a matter of much debate.40 This evidence concerns the gene VEGFA and injury.