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Updated: Mar 1, 2026
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In Vitro Culture of Epithelial Cells from Different Anatomical Regions of the Human Amniotic Membrane
Published on: November 28, 2019
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Pigment epithelial-derived factor in human fetal membranes
Cecilia Stalberg1,2, Nathalia Noda1,3, Jossimara Polettini1,3
1a Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine and Perinatal Research, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology , The University of Texas Medical Branch at Galveston , Galveston , TX , USA.
Summary
Pigment epithelial-derived factor (PEDF) expression remains unchanged in preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes (pPROM) and after exposure to risk factors. Sulforaphane significantly increases PEDF mRNA in fetal membranes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Molecular genetics
- Obstetrics
Background:
- Preterm prelabor rupture of the membranes (pPROM) is a major cause of preterm birth.
- Cigarette smoke extract (CSE) and lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are significant risk factors for pPROM.
- Pigment epithelial-derived factor (PEDF) possesses anti-angiogenic, anti-inflammatory, and anti-oxidant properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate PEDF expression in human fetal membranes from pPROM cases.
- To analyze PEDF expression in vitro following stimulation with CSE or LPS.
- To determine the effect of sulforaphane on PEDF expression in fetal membranes.
Main Methods:
- Quantitative RT-PCR was used to measure PEDF mRNA in clinical samples and organ explants.
- Immunohistochemistry (IHC) localized PEDF protein within fetal membranes.
- Organ explants were stimulated with CSE and LPS to mimic pPROM risk factors.
Main Results:
- PEDF mRNA levels were not significantly different in pPROM compared to term births.
- CSE or LPS treatment did not alter PEDF mRNA or protein levels in fetal membrane explants.
- Sulforaphane significantly increased PEDF mRNA expression (p < .000032).
Conclusions:
- PEDF expression in fetal membranes is not altered in pPROM or by exposure to CSE or LPS.
- Fetal membrane cells produce PEDF.
- The antioxidant sulforaphane enhances PEDF mRNA production in fetal membranes.
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