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Lipoteichoic acid induces preterm delivery in mice
S Kajikawa1, N Kaga, Y Futamura
1Toxicology Laboratory, Mochida Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., Fujieda, Shizuoka, Japan.
Journal of Pharmacological and Toxicological Methods
|September 19, 1998
Summary
Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) can induce preterm birth in mice by accelerating cervical ripening and increasing inflammatory cytokines. The effective dose of LTA was higher than that of lipopolysaccharide (LPS).
Area of Science:
- Reproductive Biology
- Immunology
- Toxicology
Background:
- Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) is a component of Gram-positive bacteria.
- Bacterial components can influence pregnancy outcomes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate if lipoteichoic acid (LTA) can induce preterm delivery in a mouse model.
- To analyze the mechanisms by which LTA might affect pregnancy.
Main Methods:
- Pregnant mice received intraperitoneal injections of LTA at varying doses and intervals.
- Cervical changes, placental histology, and inflammatory cytokine levels (IL-1α, IL-6, TNF-α) were assessed.
- Uterine muscle contractility was measured in response to LTA.
Main Results:
- LTA administration, particularly at higher doses or repeated administrations, led to 100% preterm delivery.
- LTA accelerated cervical ripening and placental abruption.
- Increased concentrations of IL-1α, IL-6, and TNF-α were observed in plasma and amniotic fluid.
- LTA enhanced uterine muscle contractions.
Conclusions:
- Lipoteichoic acid (LTA) is capable of inducing preterm delivery in mice.
- The mechanism involves inflammatory cytokine release, cervical changes, and myometrial activation.
- LTA is a less potent inducer of preterm birth than lipopolysaccharide (LPS).