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Changes in maternal plasma macrophage-colony stimulating factor levels during normal pregnancy
D P Tsakonas1, K H Nicolaides, C P Tsakona
1Harris Birthright Research Centre for Fetal Medicine, King's College Hospital School of Medicine, London, UK.
Clinical and Laboratory Haematology
|March 1, 1995
Summary
Pregnancy increases macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) and circulating monocytes after the first and second trimesters, respectively. M-CSF and monocyte levels rise independently during gestation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Reproductive Biology
- Hematology
Background:
- Macrophage-colony stimulating factor (M-CSF) plays a crucial role in monocyte development and function.
- Changes in immune cell populations and cytokine levels are expected during pregnancy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the longitudinal changes in M-CSF levels and circulating monocyte counts during normal singleton pregnancies.
- To explore the relationship between M-CSF and monocyte parameters throughout gestation.
Main Methods:
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) for M-CSF quantification.
- Automated blood analysis for absolute monocyte counts and percentages.
- Study included 80 pregnant women (12-40 weeks) and 10 non-pregnant controls.
Main Results:
- M-CSF levels were significantly elevated in pregnancy after 28 weeks compared to controls.
- Absolute monocyte number and percentage increased significantly with gestational age after 16 weeks.
- No significant correlation was found between M-CSF concentrations and monocyte counts/percentages.
Conclusions:
- Pregnancy is associated with a significant up-regulation of both M-CSF and circulating monocytes.
- These changes suggest an important role for M-CSF and monocytes in supporting the pregnant state.
- Monocyte and M-CSF increases appear to be regulated independently during gestation.