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Temporal Investigation of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Inhibitors in Human Cervicovaginal Fluid in Late Pregnancy and Labor

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Abstract

Temporal expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, -2, -3, -7, -8, -9, -12, and -13, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs)-1 and -2 in human cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) in term pregnancy and labor was investigated. Term parous women provided CVF samples that were grouped into labor, 1 to 3, 6 to 8, and 12 to 16 days before labor onset. Both MMPs and TIMPs (n = 60) were quantified using multiplex solution array and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively. Further analysis of TIMP-1 (n = 180) was undertaken. All MMPs and TIMPs except MMP-12 and -13 were detected in the CVF. Matrix metalloproteinase 7, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 were significantly increased in labor. Tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinase 1 was significantly increased up to 7 days before spontaneous labor onset. The data suggest a role of MMP-7 in the remodeling and rupture of fetal membranes and may reflect the homeostatic regulation of extracellular matrix remodeling of MMP-7 by TIMP-1 and TIMP-2.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria, Australia

    Yujing J. Heng PhD, Megan K. W. Di Quinzio MD, Stella Liong BSc, Michael Permezel MD, Gregory E. Rice PhD & Harry M. Georgiou PhD

  2. Mercy Perinatal Research Centre, Mercy Hospital for Women, Heidelberg, Victoria, Australia

    Yujing J. Heng PhD, Megan K. W. Di Quinzio MD, Stella Liong BSc, Michael Permezel MD & Harry M. Georgiou PhD

  3. University of Queensland Centre for Clinical Research, Herston, Queensland, Australia

    Gregory E. Rice PhD

  4. University Department, Mercy Hospital for Women, 163 Studley Road, Heidelberg, VIC, 3084, Australia

    Harry M. Georgiou PhD

Authors
  1. Yujing J. Heng PhD
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  2. Megan K. W. Di Quinzio MD
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  3. Stella Liong BSc
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  4. Michael Permezel MD
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  5. Gregory E. Rice PhD
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  6. Harry M. Georgiou PhD
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Correspondence to Harry M. Georgiou PhD.

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Heng, Y.J., Di Quinzio, M.K.W., Liong, S. et al. Temporal Investigation of Matrix Metalloproteinases and Their Inhibitors in Human Cervicovaginal Fluid in Late Pregnancy and Labor. Reprod. Sci. 19, 55–63 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1177/1933719111413299

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1177/1933719111413299

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