Objection: Preterm premature rupture of membranes (PPROM) is an obstetrics complication and is the leading cause of perinatal mortality and morbidity. PPROM results in critical care emergencies, and nearly all PPROM events are spontaneous and unpredictable. In addition, changes in the proteome in placental tissue during pregnancy that lead to PPROM are not clear.
Methods: We utilize a proteomics approach to study the molecular mechanisms behind human PPROM. A better understanding of proteome alteration could lead to the identification of better diagnostic/prognostic markers. Human placental tissue was collected in clearly differentiated cases of PPROM and in a healthy term control. Two-dimensional gel polyacrylamide electrophoresis coupled with mass spectrometry and bioinformatics analysis was utilized to identify proteins with altered expression.
Results: In this study, only the most important protein differences were selected for further analysis. Most of the identified proteins were structural/cytoskeletal components of the cell or involved in the regulation of energy metabolism and oxidative stress.
Conclusions: As a result, this approach has led to the identification of several proteins involved in the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that can further serve as novel diagnostic tools and targets for rational drug intervention.