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[Antiphagocytic activity of human amniotic fluid]
I Stefanovic1, J Stefanovic, M Bucová
1I. gynekologicko-pôrodnícka klinika v Bratislave a Imunobiologický ústav LFUK v Bratislave.
Bratislavske Lekarske Listy
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Preincubation with late-gestation amniotic fluid significantly impairs polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocyte function, reducing candidacidal capacity against Candida albicans. This suggests amniotic fluid may suppress innate immune cell activity before birth.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Perinatology
- Microbiology
Context:
- Late-gestation amniotic fluid plays a crucial role in fetal development and maternal-fetal interface.
- Polymorphonuclear (PMN) leukocytes are key components of the innate immune system, crucial for fighting infections.
Purpose:
- To investigate the effect of late-gestation amniotic fluid on the function of PMN leukocytes, specifically their phagocytic and candidacidal activities.
- To quantify the levels of key immune-modulating proteins, lysozyme and alpha 1-antitrypsin, in the amniotic fluid.
Summary:
- Preincubation of PMN leukocytes in amniotic fluid from late gestation significantly reduced phagocytic activity (37%), phagocytic index (21.5%), and candidacidal capacity against Candida albicans (72%).
- Levels of lysozyme (11.8 +/- 7.2 mg/L) and alpha 1-antitrypsin (0.745 +/- 0.53 g/L) were measured in the amniotic fluid.
- Certain other factors like alpha 2-macroglobulin and proteolytic activity could not be assessed with the applied methods.
Impact:
- Findings suggest that amniotic fluid may possess immunosuppressive properties, potentially protecting the fetus from maternal immune attack.
- This study provides insights into the complex interplay between the maternal immune system and the fetal environment during late pregnancy.
- Understanding these interactions is vital for managing pregnancy complications and optimizing neonatal immune defense.