RESUMEN
Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) is an important modulator of cytokine-driven inflammation. Using GeneChip analysis, we found that interleukin (IL)-1ß induces the gene expression of PTGER4, which encodes the PGE2 receptor subtype EP4 (PGE2EP4). This subtype is one of four PGE2 receptors occurring in synoviocyte MH7A cells. Immunofluorescence microscopy revealed a corresponding upregulation in the production of PGE2EP4 protein in IL-1ß-pretreated MH7A cells. PGE2 alone has no effect on IL-8 production, but in cells pretreated with IL-1ß it markedly enhances IL-8 production. Moreover, a stimulatory effect of PGE2 on IL-8 production in the synoviocyte MH7A cells was observed. These results indicate that, in the synovial tissues of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, PGE2 stimulates the release of IL-8 from the fibroblastic cells classified as present, thereby exacerbating inflammation.
RESUMEN
Cervicoisthmic pregnancy has a high risk of abortion or preterm delivery, and only 11 cases of live birth have been reported since 1980. In addition, almost all cases require blood transfusion and hysterectomy because of profuse bleeding after delivery of the placenta. A 39-year-old nulliparous woman who became pregnant after a fourth intracytoplasmic sperm injection was diagnosed with cervicoisthmic pregnancy on ultrasonography at 6 weeks' gestation. A healthy neonate was delivered by cesarean section at 32 weeks, but hysterectomy and blood transfusion were required. Perinatal management is discussed.
