Neuroinflammation and preterm birth: New aspects of pathogenesis and potential therapeutic targets (A literature review)
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.37800/RM.3.2025.456Keywords:
preterm birth, cytokines, microglia, inflammation, neuroinflammationAbstract
Relevance: Annually, approximately 15 million infants worldwide are born prematurely, with 81.1% of these cases occurring in Asia and African countries. Preterm birth (PTB) remains a leading cause of high neonatal morbidity and mortality. In recent years, particular attention has been focused on the relationship between neuroinflammation and the development of PTB, making it a potential therapeutic target.
The study aimed to identify the pathogenetic mechanisms by which neuroinflammation influences the development of preterm birth, as well as to detect risk biomarkers and possible strategies for prevention and treatment.
Materials and Methods: This systematic review aims to study the impact of neuroinflammatory processes on the development of PTB. Publications indexed in e-Library, Google Scholar, PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus were analyzed. The review included publications from 2014 to 2024 that contained data on the molecular mechanisms of inflammation, their effects on fetoplacental interactions, and the regulation of myometrial contractile activity. Inclusion criteria were randomized and cohort studies conducted on large populations, as well as meta-analyses and systematic reviews, original full-text articles in English and Russian, available in open access, and containing statistically validated conclusions. Exclusion criteria included brief reports, newspaper articles, and personal communications.
Results: Analysis of the selected studies confirmed the significant role of neuroinflammatory processes in the pathogenesis of PTB, defining them as promising targets for therapeutic intervention. Reduction of inflammatory mediator activity may contribute to the prevention of PTB and improve perinatal outcomes. Further clinical studies are needed to evaluate the efficacy, safety, and optimal timing of initiating anti-inflammatory therapy.
Identification of PTB risk factors remains a priority in obstetric practice, as early interventions substantially increase the chances of favorable perinatal outcomes. This systematic review allowed clarification of key pathogenetic mechanisms linking neuroinflammation with PTB development. The data support that activation of inflammatory cascades mediated by proinflammatory cytokines and Toll-like receptors plays a central role in the initiation of preterm labor. These mechanisms may be considered potential targets for preventing and treating PTB.
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