This subproject is one of many research subprojects utilizing the resources provided by a Center grant funded by NIH/NCRR. The subproject and investigator (PI) may have received primary funding from another NIH source, and thus could be represented in other CRISP entries. The institution listed is for the Center, which is not necessarily the institution for the investigator. This study hypothesizes that periodontal disease-related microbiological and immunological factors are positively associated with preterm (<37 weeks) delivery independent of known risk factors. Preterm delivery is a major cause of poor perinatal outcomes. Approximately 7-10% of pregnancies deliver prior to 36 weeks gestation. These preterm deliveries are due to multifactor causes. The study's objectives are as follows: 1) Determine the association between periodontal pathogens in cervical and vaginal samples of pregnant women and preterm birth. 2) Measure the association between prenatal, maternal IgG levels in these samples and preterm birth. 3) Establish the correlation between periodontal pathogens in oral, cervical, vaginal samples, pathogen-specific IgG levels and preterm birth. The endpoints are checkerboard DNA for IgG vs. specific cell surface antigens of six specific periodontal pathogens (cost decision), delivery date (gestational duration). The protocol, which follows a nested case-control design is a study of a potentially simple preventive measure with impact on large populations. Moreover, it is a collaborative, cross-departmental, cross-school effort.
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