The mouse as an investigational model for preterm labor

Preterm labor continues to be a leading cause of perinatal morbidity and mortality. In many cases the etiology of preterm labor is unknown. However, much interest has been generated surrounding the infectious causes of preterm labor. Because data suggest that preterm labor is preceded by a cascade of complex events, in vivo observations in humans and in vitro experiments using human tissue may not be sufficient to answer questions regarding its etiology. The murine model holds significant promise in delineating the chronology and specifics regarding the events precipitating preterm labor.