Examines the possible regulatory relationship between prostaglandin E[sub 2] PGE[sub 2] and the gelatinases in human fetal membranes. Link between endogenous PGE[sub 2] and latent matrix metalloproteinase-9 production in human fetal membranes; Possible role of PGE[sub 2] in the mechanism of fetal membrane structural changes and in parturition-associated membrane rupture.