Myometrial activation and preterm labour: evidence supporting a role for the prostaglandin F receptor--a review

An increase in the myometrial expression of the prostaglandin (PG) receptors, and especially the PGF(2alpha) receptor (FP), may be an important component of the process initiating preterm labour. In this review of the literature and presentation of new possibilities, evidence will be discussed that demonstrates an increase in mouse uterine FP mRNA occurs at preterm birth whereas uterine PGF(2alpha) concentrations do not increase, suggesting elevated uterine receptor expression and sensitivity is a mechanism for preterm labour initiation. The first examination of the complete human myometrial FP promoter will be described and evidence presented that demonstrates the pro-inflammatory cytokine, interleukin-1beta, stimulates FP mRNA expression. Finally new data showing that administration of a specific FP antagonist delays preterm birth in sheep will be presented.