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Inflammation in preterm and term labour and delivery
Roberto Romero1, Jimmy Espinoza, Luís F Gonçalves
1Perinatology Research Branch, NICHD, NIH, DHHS, Bethesda, MD, USA. warfiela@mail.nih.gov
Seminars in Fetal & Neonatal Medicine
|July 15, 2006
Summary
Inflammation plays a key role in both preterm and term birth. Early detection of inflammatory molecular signatures may help prevent fetal injury.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Immunology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Inflammation is a known factor in preterm and term parturition (birth).
- Infection and inflammation are the only identified causes of preterm birth with defined molecular pathways.
- Sub-clinical inflammation and histological chorioamnionitis are common in both preterm and term labor.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of inflammation in preterm and term parturition.
- To explore the potential for early detection of inflammatory processes.
- To discuss therapeutic strategies for managing inflammation during childbirth.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on inflammation and parturition.
- Analysis of the concept of 'molecular signatures of inflammation' via transcriptome analysis.
- Discussion of potential anti-inflammatory treatments.
Main Results:
- Inflammation is a critical factor in both preterm and term labor.
- Microbial invasion of the amniotic cavity is a pathological finding linked to gestational age and clinical presentation.
- Transcriptome analysis may detect inflammation before histological changes occur.
Conclusions:
- Inflammation is a significant factor in both preterm and term birth.
- Early detection of inflammation through molecular signatures is possible.
- Modulating inflammation with therapies like anti-inflammatory cytokines or antioxidants may reduce fetal injury and complement antibiotic treatments.