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HISTOCHEMICAL EXAMINATION OF THE HUMAN PLACENTA FOR 5‐HYDROXYTRYPTAMINE AND MONOAMINE OXIDASE
Author(s) -
Jones J. B.,
Madill G. T.,
PryseDavies J.
Publication year - 1974
Publication title -
bjog: an international journal of obstetrics and gynaecology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 2.157
H-Index - 164
eISSN - 1471-0528
pISSN - 1470-0328
DOI - 10.1111/j.1471-0528.1974.tb00498.x
Subject(s) - syncytiotrophoblast , cytotrophoblast , monoamine oxidase , placenta , pargyline , biogenic amine , amine oxidase , fetus , endocrinology , monoamine neurotransmitter , serotonin , human placenta , medicine , chemistry , biology , pregnancy , biochemistry , enzyme , receptor , genetics
Summary Human placentas of varying gestational age (19 to 40 weeks) have been examined histochemically using techniques which in other tissues have demonstrated 5‐hydroxytryptamine (5‐HT) and monoamine oxidase (MAO). Failure to identify 5‐HT strengthens an earlier opinion that the human placenta is incapable of producing this pressor amine. MAO was demonstrated in the syncytiotrophoblast and cytotrophoblast. It is suggested that MAO protects the placental vasculature from 5‐HT produced by the developing fetus. Alteration in progesterone concentration may affect the equilibrium.