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Calcium and 25-hydroxyvitamin D3 binding proteins in human placenta
Biology of the Neonate
|January 1, 1978
Summary
Researchers identified two specific placental proteins that bind calcium and vitamin D metabolites. These proteins may play a key role in how calcium moves across the placenta during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Reproductive Biology
- Molecular Endocrinology
Background:
- Placental calcium transport is crucial for fetal development.
- The molecular mechanisms governing this process are not fully understood.
- Vitamin D metabolites are known to influence calcium absorption.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify placental cytoplasmic proteins involved in calcium binding.
- To investigate the potential role of vitamin D metabolites in this process.
- To elucidate the mechanisms of placental calcium translocation.
Main Methods:
- Human term placenta cytosol was prepared using ultracentrifugation.
- Proteins were partially purified using column chromatography.
- Binding assays were performed using 45Ca and 3H-25-hydroxyvitamin D3.
Main Results:
- Two distinct proteins capable of specifically binding 45Ca were identified.
- These proteins also bound 3H-25-hydroxyvitamin D3.
- The identified proteins have approximate molecular weights of 12,000 and 67,000 Da.
Conclusions:
- Specific calcium-binding proteins were found in human placental cytosol.
- These proteins may act as intermediaries in placental calcium transport.
- The findings suggest a potential link between vitamin D metabolites and placental calcium translocation.