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Increases of plasma eosinophil major basic protein levels late in pregnancy predict onset of labor
Abstract:
Major basic protein (MBP), the core of the eosinophil granule, is a potent toxin for parasites and mammalian cells; it also causes histamine release from mast cells and basophils. Plasma levels of MBP are increased in all pregnant women, and MBP has been localized by immunofluorescence to placental X cells and placental-site giant cells. Analyses of plasma MBP levels during pregnancy showed a striking correlation between increases late in the third trimester and spontaneous onset of labor. In one case with premature labor, the plasma MBP level also was increased coincidentally with labor. In contrast, in cases of prolonged gestation in which labor was induced, there were no late increases in MBP levels. Also, uterine contraction during spontaneous labor or oxytocin-induced labor did not cause elevations of plasma MBP. Measurement of plasma MBP levels in pregnancy may be useful for the prediction of labor and for the development of new means of intervention for premature labor and prolonged gestation.
Insights
Plasma levels of major basic protein (MBP) rise late in pregnancy, correlating with spontaneous labor onset. This finding may aid in predicting labor and developing interventions for premature or prolonged gestation.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Immunology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Major basic protein (MBP) is a key component of eosinophil granules with cytotoxic properties.
- MBP is present in pregnant women and localized to placental cells.
- Elevated MBP levels are observed in all pregnancies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the correlation between plasma MBP levels and the onset of labor.
- To explore the potential of MBP as a biomarker for labor prediction.
- To assess MBP's role in spontaneous and induced labor.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of plasma MBP levels during different stages of pregnancy.
- Correlation of MBP levels with spontaneous labor, premature labor, and induced labor.
- Immunofluorescence localization of MBP in placental tissues.
Main Results:
- Plasma MBP levels showed a strong correlation with the spontaneous onset of labor in late pregnancy.
- Increased MBP levels were observed coincidentally with premature labor.
- No late increases in MBP levels were noted in cases of prolonged gestation requiring labor induction.
- Uterine contractions did not elevate plasma MBP levels.
Conclusions:
- Plasma MBP levels may serve as a predictive marker for labor onset.
- MBP measurement could facilitate the development of interventions for managing labor timing.
- Further research into MBP's role in parturition is warranted.