Abstract
Aim: Toll-like receptor 4 (TLR-4) is the major receptor used for recognition of specific gram negative bacteria by the host immune system. The role of TLR-4 has been revealed in preterm parturition. This study aims to demonstrate the immunohistochemical expression of TLR-4 with regard to histological layers and anatomical regions of the human fetal membranes. Material and Methods: Fetal membranes were obtained from the uterine fundus and low segment. Immunohistochemical staining for TLR-4 and hematoxylin and eosin stain were performed. Results: The chorion expressed significantly higher levels of TLR-4 than the amnion (P = 0.001). There was no difference in the expression of TLR-4 between the uterine fundus and the uterine low segment (P = 0.942). There was no significant difference in TLR-4 expression according to the presence of histological chorioamnionitis (P = 0.444). TLR-4 expression decreased significantly with the progression of gestation (P = 0.002). Conclusions: The level of expression of TLR-4 did not differ according to anatomic location, but did differ according to the histological layer of the human fetal membranes and gestational age. These results suggest that TLR-4 may be involved in preterm parturition.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 108-112 |
Number of pages | 5 |
Journal | Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research |
Volume | 38 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2012 Jan |
All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes
- Obstetrics and Gynaecology