A precursor role for DHA in a feto-placental unit for oestrogen formation in the mare

Plasma levels of total oestrogens and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHA) were measured by radioimmunossay in samples taken from various blood vessels in both maternal and fetal compartments in 11 Pony mates. High concentrations of oestrogens (greater than 100 ng/ml of plasma), expressed as oestrone equivalents, were found in the fetal circulation. On both the fetal and maternal sides, oestrogen concentrations were lower in blood going to than from the placenta. DHA concentrations, on the other hand, were higher in blood flowing to the placenta from the fetus. The fetal gonads were seen as the source of DHA, which was present in remarkably high concentrations (greater than 800 ng/ml of plasma) in venous samples from fetal ovaries and fetal testes. A precursor role in placental oestrogen formation is suggested for DHA secretion by the fetal gonads.