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CA 125 in tissues and amniotic fluid during pregnancy
J G Quirk1, G L Brunson, C A Long
1Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, Little Rock 72205.
American Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology
|September 1, 1988
Summary
The decidua is the primary source of CA 125 in amniotic fluid, entering via a specific intercellular system. This finding clarifies the origin of CA 125 during pregnancy.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Biochemistry
- Immunology
Background:
- CA 125 levels in amniotic fluid exhibit dynamic changes throughout pregnancy.
- Previous studies reported varying concentrations of CA 125 in different pregnancy-related tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the source of CA 125 in amniotic fluid.
- To elucidate the mechanism of CA 125 transport into the amniotic fluid.
Main Methods:
- Immunoradiometric assay for CA 125 quantification in amniotic fluid and tissue extracts.
- Immunohistochemical analysis of endometrium, decidua, and fetal membranes using the OC 125 antibody.
Main Results:
- CA 125 concentrations in amniotic fluid peak between 12 weeks and term, then decline.
- High CA 125 levels were found in secretory endometrium and decidua tissue extracts.
- Immunohistochemistry revealed CA 125 on apical surfaces of endometrial glands and in decidualized glands, and within intercellular canaliculi of amniotic epithelium.
Conclusions:
- The decidua is identified as the most probable source of amniotic fluid CA 125.
- CA 125 likely enters amniotic fluid through the intercellular canalicular system traversing the amniotic epithelium.