The action of prostaglandin E2 on the human cervix:: Stimulation of interleukin 8 and inhibition of secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor

OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to investigate regulation of inflammatory mediators implicated in cervical ripening and to explore the mechanisms by which the clinically effective agent prostaglandin E-2 may mediate cervical ripening. STUDY DESIGN: Cervical biopsy specimens were taken from healthy, nonpregnant women undergoing a hysterectomy for a benign nonmalignant condition and were cultured, with treatments in quadruplicate, for 24 hours in media supplemented with progesterone, dexamethasone, nitric oxide, interleukin 8, and prostaglandin E-2. Media were collected and assayed by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay for interleukin 8, secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor, and prostaglandin E-2. Ethical approval was obtained for this study from the local ethics committee. RESULTS: Interleukin 8 release from cervical explants was stimulated by prostaglandin E-2 and nitric oxide and inhibited by progesterone and dexamethasone. Secretory leukocyte protease inhibitor release from cervical explants was stimulated by progesterone and inhibited by prostaglandin E-2 Prostaglandin E-2 release from cervical explants was stimulated by nitric oxide. CONCLUSION: Complex interactions occur between inflammatory cytokines within the cervix; these results further our understanding of the mechanism of cervical ripening.