α-Lipoic acid blocks the GMCSF induced protease/protease inhibitor spectrum associated with fetal membrane weakening in-vitro.

•GMCSF is a critical intermediate in inflammation-induced Fetal Membrane weakening.•Previous studies report GMCSF induces 3 MMPs and inhibits 3 TIMPS in FM.•GMCSF also induces 3 other proteases and inhibits 4 other protease inhibitors.•Lipoic acid inhibits GMCSF FM weakening and changes to proteases and inhibitors.•GMCSF induces the same proteases seen elevated in the FM peri-cervical weak zone.