British researchers at the University of Newcastle report that trichostatine A, originally used against cancer, may help to prevent premature births.
The drug decreases uterine contractions by increasing protein kinase A, an enzyme involved in muscle relaxation.
More tests need to be performed to ensure that the drug is safe for the mother and child. If these tests are successful, this drug would be very promising since the current drugs used to prevent premature births are associated with many side effects.
Premature births are one of the most important factors of infant mortality. In 2006-2007, 8.1% of births in the country occurred before 37 weeks, which represents 29 000 births.