Localization of S-[methyl-14 C]adenosyl-L-methionine in pregnant mice and fetuses as determined by autoradiography.

The distribution of S-[methyl-14C]Adenosyl-L-methionine has been examined in pregnant mice using an autoradiographic technique. The results indicate that the compound crosses the placental barrier quite slowly and accumulates in some fetal tissues such as intestine, liver, kidney, eye and lung. The highest concentration is reached 12 hours after i.v. administration of the compound. In the placenta the labelling can be detected for a long time after administering the radioactive compound.