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Decreased plasma pancreatic polypeptide levels in pregnancy
The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism
|April 1, 1981
Summary
Pregnancy impairs glucose tolerance and reduces the pancreatic polypeptide (PP) response to oral glucose. Fasting PP levels are lower, and the post-ingestion PP increase is diminished in pregnant women compared to postpartum.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Obstetrics
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Pancreatic polypeptide (PP) plays a role in glucose homeostasis.
- Changes in hormonal profiles during pregnancy can affect gastrointestinal function.
- Previous research suggests alterations in nutrient metabolism during gestation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pancreatic polypeptide (PP) response to oral glucose ingestion in late pregnancy.
- To compare glucose tolerance and PP response between late pregnancy and the postpartum period.
Main Methods:
- Studied 11 healthy women in late pregnancy and postpartum.
- Administered oral glucose tolerance tests.
- Measured fasting and post-ingestion plasma pancreatic polypeptide (PP) levels.
Main Results:
- Glucose tolerance was significantly impaired during pregnancy compared to postpartum.
- Fasting plasma PP concentrations were lower in pregnancy (7.6 +/- 1.2 pmol/L) versus postpartum (12.6 +/- 1.2 pmol/L).
- The integrated PP response to glucose was significantly diminished in pregnancy (548 +/- 331 pmol/L/min) compared to postpartum (1645 +/- 347 pmol/L/min).
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy is associated with reduced fasting pancreatic polypeptide (PP) levels.
- The PP secretory response to oral glucose is significantly blunted in late pregnancy.
- These findings suggest altered glucose metabolism and gastrointestinal regulation during pregnancy.