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Perinatal changes in serum mannose-binding protein (MBP) levels
1Department of Laboratory Medicine, Hokkaido University School of Medicine, Sapporo, Japan.
Insights
Newborns have significant mannose-binding protein (MBP) at birth, which increases substantially within five days. This suggests MBP production is triggered by the infant's new environment.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Neonatal physiology
Background:
- Mannose-binding protein (MBP) is a key component of the innate immune system.
- Understanding MBP levels in newborns is crucial for assessing immune readiness.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze serum mannose-binding protein (MBP) levels in normal newborns from birth up to five days.
- To investigate the dynamic changes and potential triggers for MBP production in neonates.
Main Methods:
- Serum samples were collected from normal newborn infants on day 0 (at birth) and through day 5 post-birth.
- Quantification of mannose-binding protein (MBP) levels was performed using established laboratory assays.
Main Results:
- Significant levels of mannose-binding protein (MBP), approximately 1 microgram/ml, were detected at birth.
- MBP serum concentrations showed a marked increase starting from day 2, reaching peak levels of about 2.5 micrograms/ml by day 5.
- The observed rapid increase indicates a robust production of MBP in the early neonatal period.
Conclusions:
- Newborn infants possess substantial mannose-binding protein (MBP) levels at birth.
- MBP levels significantly elevate within the first five days of life, suggesting rapid induction.
- These findings imply that environmental changes experienced by the infant after birth stimulate MBP production.
Abstract:
Changes in serum levels of mannose-binding protein (MBP) from day 0 through day 5 after birth were analyzed for normal newborn infants. A considerable amount of MBP (about 1 microgram/ml) was already present in serum at birth. This level started to elevate from day 2 and attained the highest level in a human lifetime (about 2.5 micrograms/ml) within 5 days after birth. Results indicate that MBP can be produced at birth in response to environmental changes.