Transfer and metabolism of platelet-activating factor by fetal membranes, amnion and chorio-decidua.
OBJECTIVE
To determine the metabolism of 3H-Platelet-activating factor (3H-PAF) during transfer through human fetal membranes.


METHODS
3H-PAF was added to the fetal side of cultured intact fetal membranes, amnion and chorio-decidua obtained from three pregnancies ending in elective caesarean section.


METHODS
Radioactivity was measured on both sides of the tissue, and in the tissue itself. In some experiments, the metabolism of 3H-PAF was assessed by thin-layer chromatography.


RESULTS
Very little 3H-PAF crossed the intact fetal membrane (< 2%) during 24 h of culture. Most of the 3H-PAF which accumulated in the membrane was converted to a range of metabolites in the chorio-decidua.


CONCLUSIONS
These results suggest that PAF in amniotic fluid may not reach the decidua, and therefore is unlikely to be involved in the control of prostaglandin production from this tissue.
Morris
C
C
Institute of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Royal Postgraduate Medical School, Hammersmith Hospital, London, UK.
Sullivan
M H
MH
Elder
M G
MG
D000653:Amniotic Fluid / Q000378:metabolism; D002823:Chorion / Q000378:metabolism; D003656:Decidua / Q000378:metabolism; D005321:Extraembryonic Membranes / Q000378:metabolism*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D010972:Platelet Activating Factor / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000493:pharmacokinetics; D011247:Pregnancy
D010972:Platelet Activating Factor