Comparison of the mechanisms responsible for cervical remodeling in preterm and term labor

Understanding the mechanisms of term and preterm cervical remodeling is essential to prevent prematurity. Is preterm cervical remodeling caused by the same mechanisms that cause cervical remodeling at term, and are these changes accelerated in time? This question has been pondered by obstetricians seeking strategies to prevent preterm labor for many years. Mice represent an informative model of preterm birth. Thus, in this review we discuss the recent findings from mouse models that identify and characterize the initiators and cellular effectors of cervical remodeling at term and preterm labor/delivery. These studies suggest that similarities and differences exist between term and preterm cervical remodeling. Complement is an initiator or mediator in preterm labor/delivery, but is not involved in the physiological process that leads to term delivery. Therefore, complememt constitutes a specific and selective target for potentially preventing preterm delivery, thus improving neonatal health.