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Hypothesis: placental membranes produce prolactin
Molecular and Cellular Endocrinology
|June 1, 1978
Summary
This study investigates the source of high prolactin (PRL) in amniotic fluid. Evidence suggests decidua-chorion, not serum, produces PRL, potentially mediating local functions.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Obstetrics
Background:
- High concentrations of prolactin (PRL) are found in amniotic fluid.
- Current theories attribute amniotic fluid PRL to maternal or fetal serum origins.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore alternative sources of amniotic fluid prolactin.
- To investigate the potential role of placental and periplacental tissues in PRL production.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing data on PRL origins.
- Interpretation of experimental results from rhesus monkey studies.
- Analysis of in vitro human tissue incubation experiments.
Main Results:
- Data can be interpreted to support placental or periplacental origin of amniotic fluid PRL.
- Trophoblast and amnion do not appear to synthesize PRL.
- PRL synthesis by decidua-chorion is suggested by animal and human tissue studies.
Conclusions:
- Decidua-chorion is a potential source of amniotic fluid prolactin.
- Extrapituitary PRL production by decidua-chorion offers a simple explanation for high amniotic fluid levels.
- Decidual-chorionic PRL may play local roles in osmoregulation and myometrial inhibition.