Regulation of TIMP-1 in Human Placenta and Fetal Membranes by lipopolysaccharide and demethylating agent 5-aza-2'-deoxycytidine

Background An appropriate transcriptional profile in the placenta and fetal membranes is required for successful pregnancy; any variations may lead to inappropriate timing of birth. Epigenetic regulation through reversible modification of chromatin has emerged as a fundamental mechanism for the control of gene expression in a range of biological systems and can be modified by pharmacological intervention, thus providing novel therapeutic avenues. TIMP-1 is an endogenous inhibitor of MMPs, and hence is intimately involved in maintaining the integrity of the fetal membranes until labor.