Vaginal Microbiota, Genital Inflammation and Extracellular Matrix Remodelling Collagenase: MMP-9 in Pregnant Women With HIV, a Potential Preterm Birth Mechanism Warranting Further Exploration.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Pregnant women living with HIV infection (PWLWH) have elevated rates of preterm birth (PTB) in which HIV and cART are implicated. PWLWH also have a high prevalence of adverse vaginal microbiota, which associate with genital tract inflammation. The mechanism underlying PTB in PWLWH is unknown. We present the first data in PWLWH on genital-tract matrix-metalloproteinase-9(MMP-9), an important collagenase implicated in labour onset, and tissue inhibitor of metalloproteinases-1(TIMP-1) and explore correlations with local inflammation and vaginal bacteria.

Material and methods

Cervical vaginal fluid (CVF) collected by a soft cup and high vaginal swabs (HVS) were obtained from PWLWH and HIV uninfected pregnant women (HUPW) at three antenatal time points. Maternal charac

SUBMITTER: Short CS 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC8667959 | biostudies-literature | 2021

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature