Moreover, it should be determined whether the mere PTL itself may increase a more IA inflammatory response than preterm-PROM, or whether much higher intensity of AF MMP-8 concentration may act preferentially on the production of prostaglandin for PTL, rather than on the degradation of extracellular matrix in the chorio-amniotic membranes for preterm-PROM. The gene discussed is MMP8; the disease is atrial fibrillation.