Abbott Laboratories and other defendants in the Preterm Infant Nutrition MDL have filed a motion to exclude Dr. Jennifer Sucre, a highly esteemed neonatologist, from testifying about the connection between formula feeding and necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in preterm infants.

Dr. Sucre is a distinguished expert in neonatal medicine. As a nationally recognized neonatologist and physician-scientist at Vanderbilt University, her pioneering research bridges clinical care with advanced scientific discoveries to enhance outcomes for premature infants. With extensive expertise in cellular biology and preterm infant health, her peer-reviewed work has significantly contributed to the field of neonatal medicine, earning her a reputation as a leading authority.

Despite her impressive qualifications, the defendants argue that Dr. Sucre is unfit to testify, claiming her focus on lung development undermines her ability to speak on NEC. They also challenge her reliance on animal and in vitro studies, disregarding the ethical and logistical constraints of conducting human trials on such a vulnerable population. Their intent is clear: discredit a credible expert to weaken the plaintiffs’ case and minimize their own liability.

It’s no surprise the defendants are attempting to exclude Dr. Sucre before trial. Her testimony would be both compelling and detrimental to their defense, which is precisely why they want to prevent the jury from hearing it.