The MMP-9/TIMP-1 imbalance and the reduced level of TGF-β in the cervical area of amniotic membrane is a possible risk factor of PROM and premature labor — proof-of-concept study

Objectives: To assess the level MMP-9, TIMP-1 and TGF-β in placental and cervical region of amniotic membranes derived from at-term, pre-term and PROM deliveries. Material and methods: 14 amniotic membranes have been assessed; the quantitative analysis of MMP-9, TGF-β and TIMP-1 was assayed using respective Quantikine Immunoassay Kit. Results: The MMP-9 level in PROM samples was similar to the level of MMP-9 in at-term membranes and comparable between the cervical and placental region of these membranes. The concentration of TGF-β and TIMP-1 was decreased in the cervical area of AM derived from deliveries complicated with PROM. Conclusion: The MMP9/TIMP-1 imbalance, as well as the reduced level of TGF-β may be possible risk factors of pre-term labor and PROM

Is Component-Specific Antibody Testing Sufficient to Replace the Oral Food Challenge in the Diagnostics of Peanut-Sensitized Children? A Proof-of-Concept Study

(1) Peanut allergy is associated with high risk of anaphylaxis which could be prevented by oral immunotherapy. Patients eligible for immunotherapy are selected on the basis of a food challenge, although currently the assessment of antibodies against main peanut molecules (Ara h 1, 2, 3 and 6) is thought to be another option. (2) The current study assessed the relationship between the mentioned antibodies, challenge outcomes, skin tests and some other parameters in peanut-sensitized children. It involved 74 children, divided into two groups, based on their response to a food challenge. (3) Both groups differed in results of skin tests, levels of component-specific antibodies and peanut exposure history. The antibody levels were then used to calculate thresholds for prediction of challenge results or symptom severity. While the antibody-based challenge prediction revealed statistical significance, it failed in cases of severe symptoms. Furthermore, no significant correlation was observed between antibody levels, symptom-eliciting doses and the risk of severe anaphylaxis. Although in some patients it could result from interference with IgG4, the latter would not be a universal explanation of this phenomenon. (4) Despite some limitations, antibody-based screening may be an alternative to the food challenge, although its clinical relevance still requires further studies