LAY TITLE: The regulation of cyclo-oxygenase type 2 (Cox-2) expression by mechanical stretch in human amnion

Preterm labour is the major cause of death and disability in newborn babies. The social and financial costs are enormous, but most distressing is the impact of long-term disability on the individuals and their carers. The incidence of preterm birth has not changed over several decades. This is because we do not fully understand what causes it. The membranes which surround the baby play an important role in normal labour by producing a local hormone called prostaglandin whose effects include stimulating the contraction of smooth muscle. Research has shown that stretching of these membranes results in a release of prostaglandin. These membranes may be abnormally stretched during pregnancy either by distension of the uterus or by weakness of the cervix, which may lead to early production of prostaglandin and preterm delivery. This study will explore how stretch increases prostaglandin production and will provide information which may help in preventing increased prostaglandin production and therefore preterm labour.

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