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[Dynamic changes in serum osteocalcin levels in the perinatal periods]
H Fukuoka1, S Mukai, Y Kobayashi
1Department of Perinato-Gynecology, Kagawa Medical School, Japan.
Nihon Naibunpi Gakkai Zasshi
|October 20, 1989
Summary
During pregnancy, serum osteocalcin levels decrease, indicating suppressed bone turnover, while nephrogenic cAMP increases. This suggests pregnancy may induce secondary hyperparathyroidism, with potential placental osteocalcin production.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Bone Metabolism
- Reproductive Physiology
Background:
- Osteocalcin is a bone-specific protein reflecting bone formation rates.
- Serum osteocalcin levels are established clinical markers for bone turnover.
- Nephrogenic cAMP serves as an indirect measure of biologically active parathyroid hormone.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze bone metabolism changes during pregnancy.
- To measure maternal serum osteocalcin and nephrogenic cAMP concentrations throughout gestation.
- To assess these markers in cord serum at delivery.
Main Methods:
- Maternal serum samples collected during pregnancy (trimesters 1 and term).
- Cord serum samples obtained at delivery.
- Quantification of osteocalcin and nephrogenic cAMP concentrations.
Main Results:
- Nephrogenic cAMP levels increased from the first trimester to term.
- Osteocalcin levels decreased from the first trimester to term, with a significant rise in the puerperium.
- Umbilical vein osteocalcin was higher than cord artery osteocalcin in uncomplicated deliveries.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy may induce a state of secondary hyperparathyroidism with suppressed bone turnover.
- The observed changes in osteocalcin and nephrogenic cAMP suggest complex hormonal regulation during gestation.
- Elevated osteocalcin in umbilical vein points to possible placental production of osteocalcin-like proteins.