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Identification of ejaculate derived propylamine found in collagen sponge contraceptives
Biomedical Mass Spectrometry
|March 1, 1978
Summary
Propylamine, a compound found in contraceptive sponges and human ejaculate, is enzymatically formed from spermine and spermidine. This marks the first identification of propylamine formation from human tissue.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Human Physiology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Propylamine has been detected in odoriferous intravaginal contraceptive sponges used by sexually active women.
- The presence of propylamine in human biological samples suggests a potential endogenous origin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the origin and formation pathway of propylamine in human samples.
- To investigate the enzymatic processes involved in propylamine synthesis.
Main Methods:
- Gas liquid chromatography and mass spectroscopy were employed for compound identification.
- Propylamine was derivatized as N-propylbenzoylamide for confirmation.
- Incubation of human ejaculate at 37 degrees C for seven days was performed.
Main Results:
- Propylamine was identified in human ejaculate incubated under specific conditions.
- The study confirmed the enzymatic formation of propylamine from spermine and spermidine.
- This is the first report of propylamine formation originating from human tissue.
Conclusions:
- Propylamine is an endogenous compound formed enzymatically in humans.
- Spermine and spermidine are precursors to propylamine in human biological systems.
- The findings contribute to understanding biochemical processes in human reproductive contexts.