Hydrogen sulfide inhibits the rupture of fetal membranes throngh anti-aging pathways

Abstract

IntroductionTo investigate the relationship between hydrogen sulfide(H2S) and the senescence level of the fetal membranes, and to elucidate how H2S affects the integrity of the fetal membranes. MethodsThe H2S and the senescence levels of fetal membranes, and the expressions of H2S synthase CBS and CSE were detected in the preterm (PT) group and the preterm premature ruptured membranes (pPROM) group. The effects of H2S donors and knockdown of CBS on the senescence level of amniotic epithelial cells, and the expression level of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) and epithelial-mesenchymal translation (EMT) were observed. ResultsThe level of H2S in the fetal membranes in the pPROM group is significantly lower than that in the PT group matched for gestational age. The level of H2S is negatively correlated with the senescence level of fetal membranes. Treatment with H2S donors reduced cell senescence and MMPs expression, but did not affect EMT. CBS siRNA transfection accelerated the senescence of amniotic epithelial cells, and promoted the expression of MMPs and EMT occurrence, but l-cysteine could reverse these effects. DiscussionOur study suggests that H2S, through its anti-aging effect, can influence the expression of MMPs and EMT, thereby contributing to the maintenance of fetal membrane integrity.