FIBRONECTIN IN THE PLASMA DURING PREGNANCY AND PARTURITION

Fibronectin can be detected in the plasma and the extracellular matrix of the uterus of pregnant women. Studies so far have compared individ ual observations, whilst serial investigations during pregnancy, and d uring and after parturition have not been carried out. Plasma fibronec tin levels were measured in 153 women with healthy pregnancies in rela tion to the gestational age. During parturition, blood was taken from the inception of labor through to parturition, and on the Ist, 3rd, an d 5th days after parturition. The investigations of the plasma fibrone ctin level in pregnant women show constant concentrations up to the 35 th week of pregnancy. From the 36th week onward the fibronectin rises significantly before dropping to the initial values at the start of la bor. The elevated fibronectin concentration in the last 4 weeks before delivery could be explained both by renewed, elevated synthesis in th e uterus and placenta as well as by lower consumption. The decline in the fibronectin level with the onset of labor could be caused by an el evated enzymatic induction in the uteroplacental unit in connection wi th the start of parturition.