Discrepancies in Animal Models of Preterm Birth

摘要

Background: Preterm birth (PTB) is a multifactorial syndrome occurring before the 37th week of fullterm pregnancy [1]. Babies delivered preterm experience short-term and long-term complications affecting multiple organ systems, and serious maternal complications include hemorrhage and infection. Each year, an estimated 15 million babies are born preterm, and complications from prematurity are the leading cause of death among children up to 5 years of age [2]. With another increase in PTB rates over the last several years, the United States continues to have the highest incidence of any industrialized country [3]. Makena (a progesterone analog) is the only FDA approved medication available in the United States to reduce the risk of PTB. Its use is only indicated in women who are currently pregnant with one fetus and have unexpectedly delivered a baby preterm in the past [4]. Furthermore, Makena is very expensive and not used in mothers with multiple gestations or other risk factors, such as infection, preeclampsia and obesity. Consequently, physicians commonly prescribe supportive therapies, such as magnesium sulfate, to slow uterine contractions, and glucocorticoids to stimulate fetal lung maturity.