Treating pPROM to prevent preterm deliveries

Preterm birth is a major issue in perinatal medicine as it can lead to neonatal complications and long-term effects. From the perspective of innate immunity, my research seeks to develop treatments for preterm premature rupture of membranes (pPROM), where the fetal membrane ruptures in the second trimester. In mouse model experiments, we have observed that macrophages gather at the rupture site of the amniotic membrane (part of the fetal membrane) to promote wound healing. Understanding this phenomenon could be key to repairing and regenerating the amnion, ultimately preventing preterm birth caused by pPROM. If babies can be born healthy at full term, they can start their lives with a strong foundation. By reducing pPROM and preterm births, I aim to help more babies grow up healthy in a society experiencing rapid population decline.

URL

https://research.kyoto-u.ac.jp/documentary/d033/ (in Japanese)