Does exposure to flame retardants increase the risk for preterm birth?

During the past 40 years, polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) have been widely used as flame retardants and nearly all women have some level of exposure. PBDEs have been isolated from amniotic fluid and cord plasma indicating vertical transmission; however, their effects on pregnancy outcome are largely unknown. Therefore, we quantified PBDE-47, the most common congener in maternal plasma samples collected at the time of labor from women who subsequently had term or preterm birth (PTB).

Can carbon monoxide prevent infection-mediated preterm birth in a mouse model?

Problem: Preterm birth is frequently caused by intrauterine infection and inflammation. Recent studies have demonstrated that carbon monoxide (CO), which is produced endogenously, has potent anti-inflammatory properties. Whether or not CO can prevent infection-mediated preterm birth is unknown.

Effect of carbon monoxide on bacteria-stimulated cytokine production by placental explants.

Problem: Preterm birth is frequently caused by an inflammatory response to ascending infections of the reproductive tract. Carbon monoxide (CO) has potent anti-inflammatory properties at subtoxic concentrations. Whether or not CO can modulate inflammatory responses by placental tissues is unclear.