Using protein assays, for instance, some pro-inflammatory cytokines and other molecules, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), interferon-gamma-inducible protein (IP)-10[10], and matrix metalloproteinase (MMP)-8[11], appeared to be expressed at higher concentrations in the AF of women who subsequently delivered preterm. The gene discussed is IL6; the disease is atrial fibrillation.