Temporal investigation of matrix metalloproteinases and their inhibitors in human cervicovaginal fluid in late pregnancy and labor

Abstract

Temporal expression of matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-1, -2, -3, -7, -8, -9, -12, and -13, and tissue inhibitors of metalloproteinases (TIMPs)-1 and -2 in human cervicovaginal fluid (CVF) in term pregnancy and labor was investigated. Term parous women provided CVF samples that were grouped into labor, 1 to 3, 6 to 8, and 12 to 16 days before labor onset. Both MMPs and TIMPs (n = 60) were quantified using multiplex solution array and enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays, respectively. Further analysis of TIMP-1 (n = 180) was undertaken. All MMPs and TIMPs except MMP-12 and -13 were detected in the CVF. Matrix metalloproteinase 7, TIMP-1, and TIMP-2 were significantly increased in labor. Tissue ..