Mouse models of preterm birth: Suggested assessment and reporting guidelines

Ronald McCarthy, Carmel Martin-Fairey, Dorothy K. Sojka, Erik D. Herzog, Emily S. Jungheim, Molly J. Stout, Justin C. Fay, Mala Mahendroo, Jeff Reese, Jennifer L. Herington, Erin J. Plosa, Elaine L. Shelton, Sarah K. England

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

65 Scopus citations

Abstract

Preterm birth affects approximately 1 out of every 10 births in the United States, leading to high rates of mortality and long-term negative health consequences. To investigate the mechanisms leading to preterm birth so as to develop prevention strategies, researchers have developed numerous mouse models of preterm birth. However, the lack of standard definitions for preterm birth in mice limits our field's ability to compare models and make inferences about preterm birth in humans. In this review, we discuss numerous mouse preterm birth models, propose guidelines for experiments and reporting, and suggest markers that can be used to assess whether pups are premature or mature. We argue that adoption of these recommendations will enhance the utility of mice as models for preterm birth.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)922-937
Number of pages16
JournalBiology of reproduction
Volume99
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Nov 1 2018

Keywords

  • gestation
  • mouse models
  • parturition
  • pregnancy
  • preterm birth

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Reproductive Medicine

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Mouse models of preterm birth: Suggested assessment and reporting guidelines'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this