Metformin attenuates susceptibility to inflammation-induced preterm birth in mice with higher endocannabinoid levels†

Abstract

Premature decidual senescence is a contributing factor to preterm birth. Fatty acid amide hydrolase mutant females (Faah−/−) with higher endocannabinoid levels are also more susceptible to preterm birth upon lipopolysaccharide (LPS) challenge due to enhanced decidual senescence; this is associated with mitogen-activated protein kinase p38 activation. Previous studies have shown that mechanistic target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) contributes to decidual senescence and promotes the incidence of preterm birth. In this study, we sought to attenuate premature decidual aging in Faah−/− females by targeting mTORC1 and p38 signaling pathways. Because metformin is known to inhibit mTOR and p38 signaling pathways, Faah−/− females were treated with metformin. These mice had a significantly lower preterm birth incidence with a higher rate of live birth after an LPS challenge on day 16 of pregnancy; metformin treatment did not affect placentation or neonatal birth weight. These results were associated with decreased levels of p38, as well as pS6, a downstream mediator of mTORC1 activity, in day 16 Faah−/- decidual tissues. Since metformin treatment attenuates premature decidual senescence with limited side effects during pregnancy, careful use of this drug may be effective in ameliorating specific adverse pregnancy events.