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Aromatase in human fetal tissues.
1Cecil H. and Ida Green Center for Reproductive Biology Sciences, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas 75235.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|December 1, 1989
Summary
The placenta is the primary site for estrogen production due to high aromatase enzyme levels and activity. Other fetal tissues like liver and brain also contribute to estrogen synthesis during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Reproductive Endocrinology
- Developmental Biology
Background:
- Estrogen production is crucial during pregnancy.
- The placenta is recognized as a significant source of maternal estrogens.
Purpose of the Study:
- To compare aromatase content and activity in human placenta versus other fetal tissues.
- To elucidate the specific contributions of various tissues to fetal estrogen synthesis.
Main Methods:
- Quantification of aromatase P-450 using SDS-PAGE and immunoblotting.
- Assay of aromatase activity via tritium incorporation from androstenedione into water.
- Analysis of tissues from first- and second-trimester human abortuses.
Main Results:
- Placenta exhibited the highest aromatase cytochrome P-450 content and activity.
- Significant aromatase activity was found in fetal liver, brain, and intestine.
- Minimal to extremely low aromatase activity was detected in adrenal, spleen, stomach, muscle, kidney, heart, and lung.
Conclusions:
- The placenta is a major site for estrogen precursor conversion due to abundant and highly active aromatase.
- Fetal liver, brain, and intestine also contribute to overall estrogen production within the fetal-placental unit.