Low maternal serum matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-2 concentrations are associated with preterm labor and fetal inflammatory response.

Objectives: to assess the relationship between maternal and umbilical serum concentrations of matrix metalloproteinases (MMP)-2,8,9, the soluble receptor for advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) and IL-10 and premature delivery and fetal inflammation.

Methods: maternal serum levels of MMPs, sRAGE, IL-10 and C-reactive protein (CRP) were determined in 67 women with preterm labor and in 38 healthy pregnant women of similar gestational age (GA). In the group with preterm labor we also determined umbilical concentrations of MMPs, IL-6 and sRAGE. The group with preterm labor was additionally divided based on the presence of funisitis and elevations of fetal umbilical IL-6 concentrations.

Results: maternal serum levels of MMP-2 and sRAGE were significantly lower in women with preterm labor compared to women with normal pregnancy. Additionally, within the group of women with preterm labor, maternal serum MMP-2 concentrations were significantly lower in the subgroup with funisitis and in the subgroup with elevated umbilical concentration of IL-6.

Conclusion: our results demonstrate significantly different serum concentrations of MMP-2 and sRAGE in women with preterm labor compared to healthy pregnant patients of the same GA.