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Parathyroid hormone-related protein: a possible endocrine function in lactation
1St Vincent's Institute of Medical Research, Fitzroy, Victoria, Australia.
Clinical Endocrinology
|November 1, 1992
Summary
Parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) is detectable in the maternal circulation of lactating women. This finding suggests PTHrP may have systemic effects during lactation.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Reproductive Biology
- Oncology
Background:
- Parathyroid hormone-related protein (PTHrP) is known to cause hypercalcemia of malignancy.
- PTHrP is also expressed in reproductive tissues during pregnancy and lactation.
- Its presence in maternal circulation during these physiological states is not well understood.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine if PTHrP enters the maternal bloodstream during lactation or gestation.
- To investigate the potential systemic impact of PTHrP in these conditions.
Main Methods:
- Blood samples were collected from 53 women: 18 pregnant, 19 lactating, and 16 non-lactating controls.
- PTHrP levels were measured using radioimmunoassay.
- Parathyroid hormone and total calcium were also quantified.
Main Results:
- PTHrP was detected in 12 of 19 lactating mothers but in none of the bottle-feeding mothers.
- One pregnant subject had detectable PTHrP.
- Lactating mothers had lower parathyroid hormone levels than non-lactating controls.
Conclusions:
- PTHrP is present in maternal circulation during lactation.
- The detected levels of PTHrP could potentially exert systemic effects.
- Further research is needed to elucidate the role of PTHrP in maternal physiology.