Related Experiment Videos
Specific cells of human amnion selectively localize prolactin
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|July 1, 1982
Summary
Human amniotic epithelium selectively localizes prolactin (PRL) in light cells, not dark cells. This suggests a specific physiological role for PRL in the amniotic membrane during human gestation.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive biology
- Endocrinology
- Cell biology
Background:
- Human amniotic fluid contains high prolactin (PRL) concentrations, potentially affecting water transport across the amnion.
- Human amniotic epithelium comprises distinct light and dark cells with differing large molecule transport abilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the localization of various hormones within the human amniotic epithelium.
- To determine if the amniotic epithelium exhibits selectivity in hormone uptake.
Main Methods:
- Human amnion from term cesarean sections was used.
- Autoradiography was employed to track the localization of radiolabeled hormones: [125I]human PRL, [125I]human Gh, [125I]human beta-endorphin, [125I]bovine FSH, and sodium 125I.
Main Results:
- The amniotic epithelium selectively localized [125I]human PRL.
- This selective localization of [125I]human PRL was confined to the light cells.
- Dark cells did not localize any of the tested tracers, including [125I]human PRL.
Conclusions:
- Term human amniotic epithelium consists of at least two functionally distinct cell types (light and dark cells).
- High levels of prolactin in amniotic fluid may play a specific physiological role in the amniotic membrane during human gestation.