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Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) concentration in human amniotic fluid
Hormone and Metabolic Research = Hormon- Und Stoffwechselforschung = Hormones Et Metabolisme
|May 1, 1985
Summary
Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) is present in human amniotic fluid (AF) during pregnancy. Diabetic pregnancies show lower GIP levels, suggesting a feedback mechanism with fetal insulin.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Perinatal Medicine
- Reproductive Biology
Background:
- Placenta and amniotic fluid (AF) are recognized sources of peptide hormones.
- Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) is present in the fetal gut, but its presence in AF was previously undescribed.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and levels of insulin and GIP in human amniotic fluid during normal and diabetic pregnancies.
- To explore potential correlations between GIP, insulin, and infant birth weight in diabetic pregnancies.
Main Methods:
- Amniotic fluid samples were collected from 8 normal and 53 diabetic pregnant women at 34-36 weeks gestation.
- Gastric inhibitory polypeptide (GIP) and insulin (IRI) concentrations were measured in AF, particularly after an arginine tolerance test (ATT).
Main Results:
- GIP was detected in all AF samples.
- Mean AF-GIP concentrations were lower in diabetic pregnancies (111 +/- 6 pmol/l) compared to controls (133 +/- 19 pmol/l).
- The GIP/IRI molar ratio was lower in diabetics and higher in those delivering overweight infants, suggesting a fetal feedback mechanism.
Conclusions:
- Human amniotic fluid contains both insulin and GIP.
- Lower GIP levels in diabetic pregnancies may indicate altered fetal endocrine function.
- Findings suggest a potential negative feedback loop between GIP and insulin in the fetus, influenced by maternal diabetes and infant birth weight.