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.

DESIGN

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.

MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES

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.