Prostaglandin synthesis inhibition by maternal and fetal sheep plasma and its relation to haptoglobin and albumin levels

Abstract

Mammalian plasmas and sera have been reported to contain endogenous inhibitors of prostaglandin synthesis (SIPS), but the identity and role of these suggested inhibitors is as yet undetermined. Albumin and haptoglobin have been proposed as possible inhibitors, and it has been suggested that EIPS may have a part to play in the control of PG production during pregnancy and in the neonatal period. As part of a series of studies aimed at elucidating the identity and role of EIPS, maternal and fetal blood samples were collected from chronically catheterized pregnant ewes, and plasma levels of albumin, haptoglobin and EIPS activity determined. Pregnant ewe plasma possessed high EIPS activity and f..