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Corticotropin-releasing factor-binding protein: origins and possible functions
F Petraglia1, P Florio, R Gallo
1Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University of Modena, Italy.
Hormone Research
|January 1, 1996
Summary
Corticotropin-releasing hormone-binding protein (CRFBP) modulates CRF activity in pregnancy. CRFBP levels change during gestation, suggesting a role in pregnancy-related physiological processes.
Area of Science:
- Endocrinology
- Molecular Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Corticotropin-releasing hormone-binding protein (CRFBP) is a unique neuropeptide-binding protein.
- CRFBP is expressed in the brain, liver, and placenta, with central distribution overlapping CRF receptor sites.
- CRFBP gene is mapped to chromosome 13 in humans and chromosome 5q in mice.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the role of CRFBP in human pregnancy.
- To analyze CRFBP expression and levels during different stages of pregnancy.
- To determine the functional impact of CRFBP on CRF activity in pregnancy-related tissues.
Main Methods:
- CRFBP expression analysis in placental tissues.
- Measurement of circulating CRFBP levels in pregnant and non-pregnant individuals.
- In vitro studies using recombinant and native CRFBP to assess its effect on CRF-mediated functions.
Main Results:
- CRFBP mRNA is highly expressed in amniotic epithelium, chorionic cytotrophoblast, and maternal decidua.
- Circulating CRFBP levels remain stable in early pregnancy but rise significantly at 30-35 weeks, decreasing sharply before delivery.
- Recombinant and native CRFBP inhibit CRF-induced ACTH release, prostaglandin release in the endometrium, and myometrium contractility.
Conclusions:
- CRFBP plays a significant role in modulating CRF actions during human pregnancy.
- Dynamic changes in CRFBP levels suggest its involvement in the physiological adaptations of pregnancy.
- CRFBP's inhibitory effects on CRF activity indicate a potential role in maintaining pregnancy.