Expression of lysyl oxidase (LOX) in human placental amnion in preterm labor

Purpose: The proper function of amnion is necessary for a normal pregnancy and delivery to occur. Understanding the change of amnion between term and preterm labor leads to a better method of diagnosis and prevention for preterm labor. Lysyl oxidase (LOX) catalyzes a series of reactions about the formation of cross-linking of collagen fibrils. Human amniotic tissue, containing a large amount of collagen fibers, has lysyl oxidase expression. The aim of this study was to explore whether lysyl oxidase played a relevant role in preterm labor. Methods: 7 paired of amniotic tissues from pregnant women with preterm labor (PTL) and term labor (TL) were detected for the protein and mRNA levels of lysyl oxidase by western blotting, quantitative real-time PCR. Immunohistochemistry was used to evaluate the location of lysyl oxidase in amnion. Furthermore, the activity of lysyl oxidase was measured by fluorometric assay. Results: In term of gene expression, protein level and activity of lysyl oxidase, there were no significant difference between TL and PTL. Conclusion: According to the results, we did not confirm that lysyl oxidase was one of influential factors giving rise to preterm labor.