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Amniotic fluid levels of substance P.
J S Sanfilippo1, J J Botti, R A Wild
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Louisville School of Medicine, Kentucky 40292.
The Journal of Reproductive Medicine
|August 1, 1992
Summary
Substance P (SP) was detected in amniotic fluid during mid and late pregnancy. Levels did not significantly differ between trimesters, but a notable difference was observed in diabetic patients nearing fetal maturity.
Area of Science:
- Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Neuroendocrinology
- Perinatal Medicine
Background:
- Substance P (SP) is a neuropeptide with diverse physiological roles.
- Its presence and function in amniotic fluid (AF) during pregnancy are not fully understood.
- Previous research has not extensively investigated SP levels across different gestational stages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence and levels of Substance P (SP) in amniotic fluid (AF) during mid and late gestation.
- To explore potential correlations between SP levels and clinical factors, including diabetes and fetal maturity.
Main Methods:
- Radioimmunoassay was employed to quantify SP in AF samples from 88 obstetric patients.
- AF was collected in EDTA-coated tubes.
- Antibody cross-reactivity was assessed against related peptides, showing minimal interference (<1%).
Main Results:
- Substance P (SP) was identified in amniotic fluid (AF) during both mid and late gestation.
- SP levels did not show significant differences between midtrimester and late gestation.
- A statistically significant difference in SP levels was found between diabetic patients with fetal maturity and non-diabetic controls.
Conclusions:
- This preliminary study confirms the presence of Substance P (SP) in amniotic fluid throughout mid and late pregnancy.
- Gestational stage alone did not significantly alter SP levels.
- SP levels may be associated with specific maternal conditions like diabetes nearing fetal maturity.
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