Localization and distribution of adrenomedullin receptor in the human placenta: changes with gestational age.
OBJECTIVE
To examine the distribution and localization of adrenomedullin (AM) receptor (AM-R) in human placenta and fetal membranes to assess any change during pregnancy or with labor.


METHODS
Immunohistochemistry was performed by the avidin/biotin immunoperoxidase method using an antibody specific to AM-R on intrauterine tissues collected from 7-41 weeks of gestation (n=73).


RESULTS
AM-R was localized in the placenta and fetal membranes in all 3 trimesters. The distribution of AM-R in the villous and extravillous trophoblast cells of the placenta and in chorion and decidua cells of the fetal membranes changed with gestational age but not with labor.


CONCLUSIONS
AM is secreted by decidua and trophoblast cells that also possess AM-R, suggesting that placental tissues function in both the synthesis and action of AM. Changes in AM-R in the placenta during pregnancy may reflect changes in AM function throughout gestation.
Marinoni
Emanuela
E
Laboratory of Perinatal Medicine and Molecular Biology, Department of Gynecology, Perinatology and Child Health, University La Sapienza, Rome, Italy. emanuelamarinoni@hotmail.com
Casciani
Valentina
V
Marianetti
Valeria
V
Di Rocco
Alessia
A
Moscarini
Massimo
M
Di Iorio
Romolo
R
D015331:Cohort Studies; D005260:Female; D005333:Fetus / Q000378:metabolism*; D005865:Gestational Age; D006801:Humans; D007150:Immunohistochemistry; D010920:Placenta / Q000378:metabolism*; D011247:Pregnancy; D011264:Pregnancy Trimesters / Q000378:metabolism; D058265:Receptors, Adrenomedullin; D018000:Receptors, Peptide / Q000378:metabolism*
D058265:Receptors, Adrenomedullin; D018000:Receptors, Peptide