Research Breakthrough: New Compound Offers Hope Against Premature Births in Mice

Thu 10th Jul, 2025

In a significant advancement in maternal and neonatal health, researchers at the CHU Sainte-Justine affiliated with the Université de Montréal have unveiled a novel compound that displays significant potential in preventing premature births in mice. This groundbreaking discovery comes after nearly 15 years of intensive research.

Globally, approximately 15 million babies are born prematurely each year, facing numerous health challenges. The findings, published in EMBO Molecular Medicine, aim to provide an effective and cost-efficient solution to this pressing issue.

The study, spearheaded by a Ph.D. candidate at the university, focused on a peptide named HSJ633, which is designed to target the interleukin-6 (IL-6) receptor. This receptor is known to play a critical role in innate immunity and is also implicated in the initiation of premature labor. The research builds upon the pioneering work of a biochemist who first proposed using peptides to address this receptor.

According to the research team, HSJ633 is distinctive in its ability to temporarily suppress the harmful inflammatory responses associated with IL-6 while retaining its beneficial functions that support cellular defense. This duality marks a significant leap forward in how premature birth may be managed.

Existing treatments for preterm labor typically attempt to slow down uterine contractions but often come with adverse effects for both mothers and their babies. In contrast, HSJ633 is characterized by its straightforward production process, stability, and affordability. It targets uteroplacental inflammation, which is a primary trigger for premature labor, suggesting it could serve as a safer alternative to the currently used anti-IL-6 antibodies.

The initial objective of developing HSJ633 was to treat other inflammatory conditions. However, its unexpected efficacy in prolonging gestation and protecting vital organs in newborns has redirected its potential applications. The peptide has demonstrated success in preclinical trials involving mice, effectively extending pregnancy duration while safeguarding the health of critical organs such as the lungs and intestines in neonates.

These protective effects are particularly noteworthy, as they are not observed in existing treatments. The researchers now aim to initiate clinical trials involving human subjects to further explore HSJ633's capabilities.

The development of HSJ633 represents a crucial step towards providing a reliable solution to reduce the incidence of premature births. It embodies a comprehensive response to a significant global health challenge, combining scientific innovation with clinical application that may improve outcomes for newborns and their families worldwide.

For further details, please refer to the study published in EMBO Molecular Medicine.


More Quick Read Articles »