Interleukin 16 in pregnancy, parturition, rupture of fetal membranes, and microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity

Article Abstract:

Levels of interleukin 16 increase in amniotic fluid during premature labor and also when infection is present in the uterus, according to a study of 230 pregnant women. Interleukin 16 is a pro-inflammatory chemical produced by the immune system.

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Human neutrophil collagenase (matrix metalloproteinase 8) in parturition, premature rupture of the membranes, and intrauterine infection

Article Abstract:

Matrix metalloproteinase 8 may stimulate premature rupture of membranes when an infection is present in the uterus. This enzyme breaks down collagen type I, which in turn stimulates membrane rupture.

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A role for matrix metalloproteinase-9 in spontaneous rupture of the fetal membranes

Article Abstract:

Elevated matrix metalloproteinase-9 (MMP) levels in the amniotic fluid appear to be associated with amnionitis and spontaneous rupture of the fetal membranes in pregnancy. MMPs are enzymes found in the amnion and chorion that break down collagen. Researchers measured amniotic fluid MMP levels in 201 pregnant women, and found that MMP-9 levels were significantly elevated in women with ruptured fetal membranes or microbial invasion of the amniotic fluid.

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