Effect of Supracervical Apposition and Spontaneous Labour on Apoptosis and Matrix Metalloproteinases in Human Fetal Membranes

Abstract EN

Background.

Apoptosis and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP-9) are capable of hydrolysing components of the extracellular matrix and weakening the fetal membranes which leads to eventual rupture, a key process of human parturition.

The aim of this study was to determine the effect of supracervical apposition and spontaneous labour on apoptosis and MMP-9 in human fetal membranes at term.

Methods.

Fetal membranes were obtained from term non-labouring supracervical site (SCS) and compared to (i) a paired distal site (DS) or (ii) site of rupture (SOR) after spontaneous labour onset.

Results.

The expression of the proapoptotic markers Bax, Smac, Fas, FasL, caspase-3, and PARP, was significantly higher in the non-labouring SCS chorion compared to paired DS.

Bax, Smac, FasL, caspase-3, and PARP staining was higher in the non-labouring SCS fetal membranes than that in the post-labour SOR.

MMP-9 expression and activity were higher in the post-labour SOR fetal membranes compared to non-labouring SCS fetal membranes.

Conclusion.

Components of the apoptotic signalling pathways and MMP-9 may play a role in rupture and labour.

Non-labouring SCS fetal membranes display altered morphology and altered apoptotic biochemical characteristics in preparation for labour, while the laboured SOR displays unique MMP characteristics.