Lastly, we have shown that the expression of extracellular matrix proteins known to be associated with PPROM as well as with decorin and biglycan metabolism (MMP-2, MMP-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2, collagen VI) does not display abnormal patterns in the early pregnancy serum of women who go on to develop PPROM. The gene discussed is MMP9; the disease is preterm premature rupture of the membranes.