In Vitro Secretion Profile of Pro‐Inflammatory Cytokines IL‐1β, TNF‐α, IL‐6, and of Human Beta‐Defensins (HBD)‐1, HBD‐2, and HBD‐3 from Human Chorioamniotic Membranes After Selective Stimulation with Gardnerella vaginalis

Abstract

Preterm labor associated with infection is a major clinical condition; in this work, we analyze the response of human chorioamniotic membranes stimulated with Gardnerella vaginalis. Using a two-compartment experimental model, 1 × 10(6) CFU/mL of G. vaginalis were added to either the amnion or choriodecidua face or to both. Concentrations of IL-1β, TNF-α, and IL-6, as well as human beta defensins (HBD) 1-3 were quantified by ELISA. In comparison with control conditions and regardless of the stimulation modality, IL-1β and IL-6 increased 4-fold and 28-fold, respectively, in the choriodecidual compartment. HBD-1 increased 2-fold mainly in the amniotic compartment when the stimulus was applied directly to this region. HBD-2 and HBD-3 increased an average of 2- and 8-fold, respectively, in the choriodecidual region. Stimulation with G. vaginalis induced a tissue-specific secretion profile of 1L-1β, IL-6, and HBD 1-3 in the chorioamniotic membranes.