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Changing renin substrates in human pregnancy
The Journal of Endocrinology
|May 1, 1986
Summary
High molecular weight renin substrate increases significantly in pregnant women but is low in fetal plasma. Estrogen likely stimulates this maternal increase, with potential differences in fetal metabolism affecting levels.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Reproductive Physiology
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Renin substrate is crucial in the renin-angiotensin system.
- Changes in renin substrate during pregnancy are not fully understood.
- High molecular weight (HMW) renin substrate has been observed but not extensively characterized in pregnancy and fetal plasma.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify and characterize high molecular weight renin substrate in maternal and fetal plasma.
- To investigate the changes in HMW renin substrate during gestation.
- To explore potential stimuli and fetal factors influencing HMW renin substrate levels.
Main Methods:
- Gel filtration chromatography was used to separate plasma components.
- Plasma samples were analyzed from pregnant women, non-pregnant subjects, and umbilical cord blood (arterial and venous).
- Elution profiles and proportions of HMW renin substrate were quantified.
Main Results:
- HMW renin substrate significantly increased in maternal plasma from early pregnancy (11 weeks) to term.
- Fetal plasma showed significantly lower proportions of HMW renin substrate compared to non-pregnant adults.
- HMW renin substrate exhibited heterogeneity with distinct elution profiles differing between non-pregnant adults and fetuses, with maternal profiles shifting during gestation.
Conclusions:
- Estrogen is implicated as the primary stimulus for increased HMW renin substrate production in pregnant women.
- Lower HMW renin substrate in fetuses may be due to estrogen sulfation or reduced fetal liver responsiveness.
- The similarity in profiles suggests a potential common production source within the feto-placental unit.