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Isolation of Leukocytes from the Human Maternal-fetal Interface
Published on: May 21, 2015
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The origin of amniotic polymorphonuclear leucocytes in the mare
E Hemberg1, S Einarsson, B Jones
1Herrgården, Hjortkvarn, Sweden; Department of Clinical Sciences, Faculty of Veterinary Medicine and Animal Science, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences, Uppsala, Sweden.
Reproduction in Domestic Animals = Zuchthygiene
|October 10, 2013
Summary
Polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNLs) were detected in all amniotic fluid samples from mares giving birth to healthy foals. Genetic analysis confirmed these immune cells originate from the fetus, not the mare.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Equine veterinary medicine
- Fetal immunology
Background:
- Amniotic fluid plays a crucial role in fetal development and parturition.
- Understanding the cellular composition of amniotic fluid is vital for assessing fetal well-being.
- Polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNLs) are key immune cells involved in inflammatory responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To determine the presence and source of polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNLs) in equine amniotic fluid during delivery of healthy foals.
- To investigate the origin of PMNLs found in the amniotic fluid.
Main Methods:
- Collection of amniotic fluid samples from 25 mares during parturition before amniotic vesicle rupture.
- Manual microscopic cytologic evaluation of stained cytospin preparations.
- Genomic DNA extraction and genotyping from 12 amniotic fluid samples.
Main Results:
- Polymorphonuclear leucocytes (PMNLs) were identified in all examined amniotic fluid samples.
- Genotyping results conclusively indicated that the PMNLs originated from the fetus.
Conclusions:
- The presence of fetal-derived PMNLs in amniotic fluid is a normal finding during healthy equine parturition.
- This study clarifies the origin of PMNLs in equine amniotic fluid, contributing to reproductive immunology knowledge.

