Inventors:
Ozlem Equils - Sherman Oaks CA, US
Calvin Hobel - Palos Verdes Estates CA, US
Charles F. Simmons - Los Angeles CA, US
Assignee:
CEDARS-SINAI MEDICAL CENTER - Los Angeles CA
International Classification:
A61K 38/06, A61P 15/00
Abstract:
Apoptotic processes induced by infection of, or injury to, fetal and placental tissues have been implicated in preterm delivery. Thus, modulation of apoptotis constitutes a strategy for improving pregnancy outcome in women with intrauterine infections. Caspase inhibitors, including the pancaspase inhibitor Z-VAD-FMK, can be used to prevent apoptosis and, thus, prevent preterm delivery. Accordingly, compositions and methods comprising caspase inhibitors for prevention of preterm delivery are provided.