Localization and concentrations of beta-endorphin and beta-lipotrophin in human placenta

Immunohistochemical staining of placental tissue for beta-endorphin immunoreactivity was positive in the syncytiotrophoblast in both early and term pregnancy. Cation-exchange liquid chromatography and radioimmunoassay revealed peaks of beta-endorphin and beta-lipotrophin and a third immunoreactive peak of unknown nature. The concentration of beta-endorphin was higher in the placental tissue than it was in the maternal or cord plasma. beta-Lipotrophin was not detected in all placentae studied. We did not find any effect of gestational age on tissue concentrations of endorphins in the placenta, nor was there any significant difference in the placental endorphin content between placentae collected at elective caesarean section before labour and after spontaneous vaginal delivery.

Cultured mammary carcinoma cells contain gonadotropin-releasing hormone-like immunoreactivity, GnRH binding sites and chorionic gonadotropin

Immunoperoxidase staining and radioimmunoassay were used to identify gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) and chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in 4 mammary carcinoma cell lines. GnRH-like immunoreactivity was found in all cell lines; 2 lines also contained hCG. Binding of a GnRH agonist was demonstrated by radioreceptor assay in cultured mammary carcinoma cells. In cell column perfusion of the same cells, exogenous GnRH did not stimulate release of hCG.

Intra-uterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) in relation to uterine histology and microbiology

Histological and microbiological examinations were made of 90 uteri taken in association with abdominal hysterectomy. Thirty-one women had an intra-uterine contraceptive device (IUD) in utero at the time of operation, 16 women had previously used an IUD, while 43 had never used one. A chronic inflammatory reaction was seen significantly more often in the fallopian tubes of women with an IUD in situ (21/31, 68%) than in those who had never used an IUD (7/43, 16%). In contrast, non-active post-inflammatory tubal changes were found less frequently in women with an IUD in situ (6%) than in women who had never used an IUD (16%). All tubes were sterile, expect for two with apathogenic microbes. An endometrial inflammatory reaction was found in 4 women with an IUD in situ and in one woman who had never used an IUD. The possibility of tubal infertility must be borne in mind when planning IUD contraception.

Effects of repeated bupivacaine administration on sciatic nerve and surrounding muscle tissue in rats

The effects of repeated administration of 0.5% bupivacaine or saline into the sciatic notch of rats were studied by light microscopy, electron microscopy and a neurophysiological technique. Very severe myositis, including local necrosis, developed in six of 12 rats treated twice daily with 1 ml bupivacaine for either 3 or 7 days. A 3-h infusion of 1.5 ml 0.5% bupivacaine resulted in minor injury to muscle tissue. A marked degree of disruption and vacuolization of myelin sheaths was evident in nerves exposed to bupivacaine for 3 days. Lymphocyte accumulation was confined to the area surrounding the nervous tissue in 7 of 10 of the preparations from rats treated for 3 days or by a 3-h infusion. No histological changes were detected in nerve and muscle tissue from the opposite extremity exposed to saline. After a recovery period of 3 weeks, no differences in the nerve or muscle histology were seen between samples from bupivacaine- or saline-treated animals. The amplitude of the compound action potential of sciatic nerves was, however, significantly lower after bupivacaine treatment (7 days, 1 ml twice daily). Thus, impaired function may continue despite the lack of histological intraneural injury.

Beta-endorphin and beta-lipotrophin in human ovary

The presence of beta-endorphin (beta-E) and beta-lipotrophin (beta-LPH) in human ovary was studied by liquid chromatography and radioimmunoassay, and by immunoperoxidase staining. The mean concentrations (+/- S.E., N=8) of beta-E and beta-LPH in follicular fluid samples collected during the late follicular phase of normal cycles were 1.9 +/- 0.4 pmol/l and 2.9 +/- 0.8 pmol/l, respectively. After hyperstimulation with clomiphene and gonadotropin for in vitro fertilization, the mean concentrations of beta-E and beta-LPH in follicular fluid did not increase significantly, being 3.2 +/- 0.6 and 4.1 +/- 1.0 pmol/l, respectively (N=13). beta-E or beta-LPH were not found in three corpora lutea analysed. Immunohistochemical staining of ovarian tissue did not reveal any beta-E immunoreactivity. Thus the origin of beta-E and beta-LPH in the follicular fluid remained unclear. In 7 women, blood samples were collected from the peripheral and ovarian veins at laparotomy. No significant concentration excess of beta-E or beta-LPH was found in the ovarian venous plasma, suggesting that human ovaries do not secrete significant amounts of beta-E or beta-LPH into the peripheral circulation. It seems that the role of endorphins in the human ovary is less significant than previously proposed for sheep, rat or mouse ovary.

The content and immunohistochemical localization of placental protein 10 (PP10) in the fallopian tube

Radioimmunoassay, gel filtration and immunoperoxidase staining were used to study the content and localization of placental protein 10 (PP10) in 15 fallopian tubes removed on medical grounds from patients aged between 35 and 53 years. PP10 was consistently present in all parts of the tube at all ages and in all phases of the menstrual cycle. The PP10 concentration in tissue ranged from 0.08 to 2.95 micrograms/g of tubal cytosol protein. Immunoperoxidase staining localized PP10 in monocytic and lymphoid cells that were unevenly scattered in the subepithelial layer of the mucosa. In gel filtration, PP10 from the fallopian tube and purified placental PP10 eluted in the same volume, and graded amounts of PP10-immunoreactive material from the tube and purified PP10 gave parallel dose-response curves in radioimmunoassay. We conclude that PP10 is another 'placental protein' that has been identified in the fallopian tube.

Human fallopian tube contains placental protein 14

Radioimmunoassay and immunoperoxidase staining were used to study the tissue content and localization of an endometrial protein, placental protein 14, in the human fallopian tube. Placental protein 14 immunoreactivity was found in saline extracts from all fallopian tubes tested (n = 14). In the fimbrial part the placental protein 14 content was higher in the secretory than in the proliferative phase (p less than 0.01). No difference was found in the placental protein 14 content between the isthmic, ampullar, and fimbrial parts of the tube. Immunoperoxidase staining localized placental protein 14 to the ciliated and secretory epithelial cells of the mucosa in all parts of the tube regardless of the phase of menstrual cycle. The occurrence of the same protein in the endometrium and fallopian tube is compatible with the common embryonic origin from the müllerian duct of these tissues.

Secretory endometrium synthesizes placental protein 14

Saline extracts of human nonpregnant endometrium were found to contain placental protein 14 (PP14). The tissue PP14 content was highest in the late secretory phase (median, 7.7 mg/g protein; n = 14), whereas proliferative endometrium (n = 8) was either PP14 negative or showed a low PP14 content (median, 0.15 mg/g protein). By immunoperoxidase staining, PP14 was localized in the glandular epithelial cells of endometrium. In tissue culture, secretory endometrium released more PP14 than proliferative endometrium, and cycloheximide markedly decreased this release. Synthesis of PP14 by secretory endometrium was demonstrated by incorporation of [35S]methionine into immunoprecipitable PP14. These results show that PP14 is synthesized and secreted by the nonpregnant endometrium.

Demonstration of pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A)-like material in the fallopian tube

The distribution and concentration of pregnancy-associated plasma protein-A (PAPP-A) in the human fallopian tube were examined by the immunoperoxidase staining technique and radioimmunoassay as part of a detailed study of PAPP-A in the nonpregnant state. PAPP-A-like material was identified in the epithelial cells of the mucosa in all fallopian tube specimens examined (n = 21). The intensity of the staining for PAPP-A was unrelated to the phase of the menstrual cycle. PAPP-A-like material was detected in saline extracts from all tubal tissues (n = 14) but not in any of the sera obtained from the same patients. The tissue concentration (mean +/- standard error of the mean) of immunoreactive PAPP-A varied from 15.2 +/- 1.1 to 30.1 +/- 4.2 micrograms/g protein in different parts of the tubes. No difference in the PAPP-A concentration was found between isthmic, ampullar, and fimbrial part of the tube, but proliferative phase tube seems to contain more PAPP-A than secretory phase tube. The PAPP-A measured in the fallopian tube appears to be similar in molecular size and antigenicity to that of pregnancy.

Synthesis of placental protein 12 by human endometrium

We have previously shown that placental protein 12 (PP12) is synthesized and secreted by human term pregnancy decidua in vitro. In the present study, fragments of proliferative and secretory phase endometrium were cultured in media in the presence and absence of progesterone (P) and 17 beta-estradiol (E2) for 96 h. The PP12 concentrations in the media and tissues were measured by RIA, and de novo synthesis was investigated by measuring the incorporation of [35S]methionine into PP12. Before culture, PP12 could not be detected in any proliferative endometria, whereas all secretory endometria contained PP12. All secretory endometria released PP12 into the medium in the presence and absence of added P and E2. Secretory endometria released significantly more PP12 than proliferative endometria. Three of seven proliferative endometria did not release PP12 in the absence of P, but all did so after P had been added. The addition of P to culture medium caused a 2.4-to over 71-fold increase in PP12 secretion over control values in proliferative endometria and up to a 3.5-fold increase in secretory endometrium. E2 had no significant effect. Cycloheximide totally inhibited the PP12 release induced by P from proliferative endometrium, and in secretory endometrium, it either totally blocked PP12 release or inhibited the stimulation due to P. [35S]Methionine was incorporated into immunoprecipitable PP12 in cultures of secretory and P-treated proliferative phase endometria. These results demonstrate de novo synthesis of PP12 by nonpregnant endometrium in tissue culture and suggest that the biosynthesis and secretion of PP12 by nonpregnant endometrium are regulated by P.

Sarcomas of the uterus: a clinicopathologic study of 119 patients

This series consists of 119 uterine sarcoma patients treated at the University of Helsinki Central Hospital during the 20-year period of 1958 to 1977. It comprises the three main histologic varieties: leiomyosarcomas, 51 patients; mixed müllerian sarcomas, 45 patients; and endometrial stromal sarcomas, 23 patients. The clinicopathological features that could have had a bearing on prognosis were examined retrospectively. The clinical stage at the time of primary treatment was the main prognostic factor. Other important factors were the degree of histologic differentiation and the mitotic activity. The overall five-year survival rate for patients with leiomyosarcomas was 39%; for mixed müllerian sarcomas, 33%; and for endometrial stromal sarcomas, 61%. The ten-year survival figures were 27, 14, and 37%, respectively. Some features of the diagnosis, the natural history, and the different methods of treatment of these diseases are discussed.

Testicular gonadotrophins and their receptors in human cryptorchidism as revealed by immunohistochemistry and radioreceptor assay

The localisation of endogenous FSH and LH was studied in 4 inguinal adult human testes by the immunoperoxidase technique utilising antisera against the beta-subunits of human FSH and LH. The content of available FSH and LH receptors was determined by radioreceptor assay. The Sertoli cells and about 10% of cells in the intersitium the Leydig cells, possibly the testicular macrophages, were similarly FSH-positive in cryptorchidism and control testes. The FSH receptor levels per testis were significantly lower in cryptorchidism than in control testes. Also the localisation of LH in Leydig cells in cryptorchidism was similar to the control testes, but the LH receptor level was significantly lower. These data bring further evidence for Leydig and Sertoli cell malfunction in the inguinal human testis.

Hormonally regulated expression of an apocrine epithelial antigen in the cell membranes of endometrial glands

We have raised a rabbit antiserum against formalin-treated membrane glycoproteins isolated by lectin affinity chromatography from human milk fat globules. In immunofluorescence staining the antiserum reacts strongly and exclusively with the apical membrane of the glandular epithelial cells in normal endometrium during the proliferative phase. No membrane-bound antigen is seen during the secretory phase but some positively staining material is found in the glandular lumina and a weak cytoplasmic staining is also seen. The antigen is absent in postmenopausal endometrium but is found in abundance in the cell membrane of the glandular epithelium in endometria from postmenopausal women receiving estrogen treatment. The glandular epithelium of hyperestrogenism-induced endometrial hyperplasia is very strongly decorated by the antiserum. Molecular characterization of the antigen by immunoblotting under reducing conditions reveals two polypeptides of 110,000 daltons and 93,000 daltons from normal endometrium during the proliferative phase. A single band of 75,000 daltons, probably representing shed fragment, is seen in secretory endometrium. This hormonally regulated and strictly located protein differs from many other endometrial proteins in that it is estrogen-induced, while others are dependent on progesterone effect, and it constitutes an interesting histochemical marker of endometrial glands.

Renal cell adenocarcinoma and retrovirus p30-related antigen excreted to urine

The authors have previously demonstrated in syncytiotrophoblastic cells of human placenta, hydatidiform and destructive moles, and choriocarcinoma antigens reacting with antibodies to the endogenous feline retrovirus RD114 p30 and human T cell leukemia-lymphoma virus p19 proteins. The authors now report that a monoclonal IgG1 antibody (HPS-1), recognizing both syncytiotrophoblasts and RD114 p30, also reacts with an antigen in the tumor cell cytoplasm of all 27 renal cell adenocarcinomas studied. Positively stained antigenic material was also seen in the lumen of normal tubuli of tumor kidneys, suggesting its excretion into urine. None of 10 normal kidneys, 17 Wilms' tumors, 5 transitional cell carcinomas of the renal pelvis, 5 similar tumors of the urinary bladder, 20 adenocarcinomas of the cervix uteri, 20 adenocarcinomas of the corpus uteri, or 20 adenocarcinomas of the colon showed any positive staining. All 3 renal oncocytomas studied gave a positive staining reaction. In RD114 p30 radioimmunoassay antigenic activity was detected in the urine of renal cell adenocarcinoma patients in amounts up to 1.93 ng/mg protein, but not in the serum. After nephrectomy, a decline of the excreted antigen was observed, the preoperative values being 0.16 to 1.93 ng/mg protein and the postoperative ones ranging from immeasurable to 0.58 ng/mg protein. The patients with measurable postoperative urine values had clinically detectable distant metastases. The p30-related antigen may provide a marker for renal cell adenocarcinoma.

Mr 75,000 protein, a tumor marker in renal adenocarcinoma, reacting with antibodies to a synthetic peptide based on a cloned human endogenous retroviral nucleotide sequence

Using a rabbit antiserum to a synthetic undecapeptide deduced from a cloned human retroviral gag-gene-related DNA sequence, we found a specific immunohistochemical reaction in all of 42 tested renal cell adenocarcinomas (RCC), while none of 17 similarly tested Wilms' tumors and 65 carcinomas at other sites were positive. The RCC included two cases that presented with distant metastases. It had not been possible to establish the origin of these until immunohistochemical staining revealed this typical reaction. Subsequent renal angiography disclosed the primary. In immunoblotting the antiserum detected an Mr 75,000 protein in RCC tissue, and this reaction was blocked by the undecapeptide. The usefulness of this protein as a tumor marker for RCC is discussed.

The growth rate of intracranial meningiomas and its relation to histology. An analysis of 43 patients

The growth rate of intracranial meningiomas was studied in 43 patients against a histologic grading based on the degree of anaplasia. The mean time for doubling of the tumor volume was 415 days (138-1045) in grade I (benign), 178 days (34-551) in grade II (atypical), and 205 days (30-472) in grade III (anaplastic). The difference between grade I and the combined grades II-III was highly significant. Both the mitotic index and the absence of calcification on the computed tomography scan correlated strongly with the doubling time. The growth rate should be carefully considered in planning therapy and timing computed tomography studies for patients with meningioma.

Evidence for the presence of oncoplacental SP1-like protein in normal nonpregnant serum

To seek the pregnancy-specific beta 1-glycoprotein (SP1) in nonpregnant serum, normal human serum was applied to immunoadsorbent containing monoclonal anti-SP1 antibodies. SP1 eluted with 8 M urea was further analyzed by sodium dodecyl sulfate-gel electrophoresis and immunoblotting. A SP1-positive band with the same electrophoretic mobility as purified placental SP1 was found. The results suggest that serum from normal nonpregnant subjects contains material closely related to the placental protein SP1. The mean serum concentrations of SP1 were similar in men and women, ranging from 1.1-3.4 ng/ml.

Prolactinoma of the pituitary containing amyloid

A transsphenoidal operation was performed in a 27 year old man because of a large intrasellar expansion and marked hyperprolactinaemia (33 000 mU/l). The tumour found in the operation bulged into the sphenoidal sinus and was extirpated. On histopathological examination the tumour consisted mainly of congophilic amyloid spherules with intermingled sparse adenoma cells. The adenoma cells were strongly positive for prolactin in immunoperoxidase staining, and in electron microscopy they contained secretory granules. Ultrastructurally the amyloid spherules consisted of masses of concentrical extracellular amyloid filament bundles.

Pregnancy proteins in seminal plasma, seminal vesicles, preovulatory follicular fluid, and ovary

A number of proteins previously thought to be specific for the placenta or pregnancy have been identified in the fluids bathing both the oocyte and the sperm. In many cases their concentrations in follicular fluid and seminal plasma greatly exceeded those in the serum of nonpregnant women or men, and sometimes they even exceeded the levels in pregnancy sera. We report here the occurrence of PP5, PP12, PP14 and PAPP-A in follicular fluid and seminal plasma. In follicular fluid, the levels of PP5, PP12, and PAPP-A correlate with the estrogen concentration of the same fluid, and the PP12 and PAPP-A levels also bear a positive correlation to the progesterone concentration. The levels of PP12 and PAPP-A increase as the follicle grows, as do the levels of many steroid hormones. Therefore, the apparent correlations observed may be merely coincidental. However, circumstantial evidence from other reproductive organs indicates that the synthesis of PP12 and PAPP-A is stimulated by progesterone. Results of immunohistochemical staining show that PP12 and PAPP-A are localized in the luteinized granulosa cells and the corpus luteum. Previous studies indicate that PP5 and PAPP-A inhibit the action of proteolytic enzymes plasmin and elastase, which are believed to be involved in the mechanisms of ovulation. The study of the significance of these various placental proteins for human reproduction is only at its beginning. Clearly, elucidation of their function is the key to a more fundamental understanding of their role in the events governing ovulation and implantation.

Pregnancy proteins in the endometrium after follicle aspiration for in vitro fertilization

Placental proteins PP10, PP12, and PP14 and pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) and relaxin (RX) were studied by the immunoperoxidase method in the uterine mucosa at the time of embryo replacement in 18 women for whom no embryo was available to be replaced. All subjects had received 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone caproate at the time of follicle aspiration, which had been performed 36 hours after preovulatory administration of hCG. The time between follicle aspiration and endometrial biopsy varied from 26 to 216 hours. PP10 was not detected in any specimen. RX was found in 17 of 18, PP12 in 15 of 18, PAPP-A in 14 of 18, and PP14 in 6 of 18 specimens. In a normal cycle, PP12, PAPP-A and RX appear in the endometrium on the fourth day post ovulation. In the conditions described above the same proteins could be seen in the endometrium sooner after oocyte retrieval. This may be due to a strong progesterone effect after multiple follicle aspirations and treatment with 17 alpha-hydroxyprogesterone. The significance of the occurrence of these pregnancy proteins as well as that of the morphologic and biochemical maturity of the endometrium at the time of embryo transfer are discussed.

Prostacyclin and thromboxane in breast cancer: relationship between steroid receptor status and medroxyprogesterone acetate

To study the production and significance of prostacyclin (PGI2) and thromboxane A2 (TxA2) in breast cancer, tissue fragments of breast cancer (n=23) and mastopathy (n=10) were superfused in vitro and the release of 6-keto-PGF1 alpha (a metabolite of PG12) and TxB2 (a metabolite of TxA2) measured by radioimmunoassay. Breast cancer formed more 6-keto-PGF1 alpha (4.5 +/- 0.9 ng min-1 g-1 of tissue dry weight, mean +/- s.e.) and TxB2 (2.5 +/- 0.6 ng min-1 g-1) (P less than 0.01) than did mastopathic breast (1.4 +/- 0.5 and 0.4 +/- 0.1 ng min-1 g-1, respectively). These productions were similar in steroid receptor positive and negative tumours. Breast cancer metastasized in 15 patients during the follow-up time of 3.7 +/- 0.7 years, but the initial prostanoid productions in these patients were not different from those in nonmetastatic patients. Two patients died from metastases, but their initial mammary production of prostanoids was not profoundly different from those in the survivors. In 8 patients (4 with steroid receptor positive and 4 with negative tumour), the cancer tissue was superfused in the presence or absence of medroxyprogesterone acetate (100-5000 ng ml-1), which is commonly used for treatment of breast cancer. This hormone had no effect on mammary PGI2 and TxA2 production. We thus conclude that the PGI2 and TxA2 productions are increased in mammary cancer but that this may not be of primary significance for metastastic spread.

Synthesis of placental protein 12 by human decidua

The synthesis and secretion of placental protein 12 (PP12) were studied in tissue culture using explants of decidua, amnion, chorion, and placenta from seven full term pregnancies. The total amounts of PP12 in media and tissues were measured by RIA, and new protein synthesis and secretion by decidual explants were demonstrated by the incorporation of [35S]methionine into PP12 after 20 h of incubation with 12.5 microCi/ml [35S]methionine. Cycloheximide was used to study the effect of a protein synthesis inhibitor on the secretion of PP12 by decidua. Significantly more PP12 (P less than 0.001) was released into the medium from decidual explants than from chorion and amnion explants throughout the experimental period of 24 h. When incubated under identical conditions, placental explants released no detectable PP12. In decidual tissues and their culture media, the total amount of PP12 was 127.4% higher after incubation than before incubation (P less than 0.001). No increase was found when chorion and amnion were cultured. The addition of cycloheximide into cultures decreased the total amount of PP12 in the decidua and in its culture medium by more than 50%, indicating that one part of PP12 in decidua was performed and another part was newly synthesized. Decidual explants incorporated [35S]methionine into immunoprecipitable PP12 indicating new PP12 synthesis. In gel filtration, 77% of decidual [35S] PP12 eluted in the same position as purified PP12. In sodium dodecyl sulfate polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis, the migration mobility of [35S]PP12 was identical with that of purified PP12. Our results clearly demonstrate that PP12 is a decidual rather than a placental protein.

Immunoreactive beta-endorphin is demonstrable in the secretory but not in the proliferative endometrium

The presence of immunoreactive beta-endorphin (ir beta-E) in the endometrium was studied by immunoperoxidase staining of tissue sections at various stages of the menstrual cycle. Ir beta-E was found in the endometrium during the secretory phase of the cycle, from the fourth postovulatory day to the desquamating phase, but not in the proliferative phase or during the first three postovulatory days of the cycle. Ir beta-E was located in the cytoplasm of the epithelial cells of the glands. Samples of endometrium were homogenized, and peptides were extracted with Sep Pak C18 cartridge, followed by purification of ir beta-E by cation-exchange high-pressure liquid chromatography. In samples of secretory endometrium, a peak of ir beta-E was found with identical location of that of reference beta-E. The concentration of ir beta-E in the secretory endometrium varied from 5.0 to 12.6 pg/g of tissue. The appearance of ir beta-E in the endometrium during the secretory phase may have importance in the early events of reproduction.

Intracranial hemangiopericytoma: radiology, surgery, radiotherapy, and outcome in 21 patients

At operation, 21 meningeal intracranial hemangiopericytomas resembled meningiomas, but differed histologically. They were frequently attached to sinuses, occipitally located, bled profusely at operation, and had a higher risk of recurrence and metastasis. Specific preoperative diagnosis is possible: computed tomography scan showed a meningiomalike tumor, which on the angiogram looked malignant and highly vascular. Two tumors showed a malignant growth pattern on computed tomography scan, "mushrooming." After a radical removal, three patients have lived for more than 10 years without recurrence; two of them were irradiated postoperatively. Three recurrent tumors were treated with radiotherapy only; one responded favorably.

Diagnosis of intracranial haemangiopericytomas with angiography and CT scanning

Twenty-one primary intracranial haemangiopericytomas (HPC) were operated on from 1953 to 1983. The mean age of the 12 male and nine female patients was 38 years (17-64). Plain skull films showed well-defined bone destruction in two patients. Angiograms of 18 tumours (14 primary and four recurrent) showed the following when analysed according to the criteria of Marc et al. [4]: dual arterial supply (17/18), one-three main feeders giving rise to many irregular corkscrewlike vessels (16/18), dense, well-defined and long-lasting tumour strain (17/18), but early venous drainage rarely (1/18). The overall impression was that eight tumours appeared to be typical HPCs on angiogram. Five tumours had suggestive features, though not enough to justify specific angiographic diagnosis, and five were more like classical meningiomas. The larger tumours were more typical of HPCs, the smaller ones resembled meningiomas. CT scans of eight tumours (three primary and five recurrent) were available. The tumours were attached with a broad base to the convexity or other dural surfaces, often bilaterally. No calcifications were seen. There was little, if any, surrounding oedema. Contrast enhancement was strong and homogeneous. Four of the tumours were ring like, but the ring was thick and regular, in contrast to that in glioblastomas. The tumour margin was well-defined and smooth in three tumours, and nodular margins were seen in five; two of the latter grew extensively along dural surfaces. This sign may suggest aggressive biological behaviour. If both angiograms and CT scans are available, HPCs can be differentiated from glioblastomas and classical meningiomas, but perhaps not from anaplastic meningiomas.

Human endometrium contains relaxin that is progesterone-dependent

The avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase method using two anti-porcine relaxin antisera was employed to study the occurrence of relaxin in the endometrium of 102 pre- or postmenopausal women. Relaxin was not found in the endometrium in the following conditions: 1. normal proliferative phase (n = 27), 2. cystic glandular hyperplasia (n = 12), 3. early secretory endometrium during 1-3 postovulatory days (n = 12), 4. atrophic endometrium from postmenopausal women not taking hormones (n = 7), and 5. atrophic or proliferative endometrium of women undergoing estrogen replacement therapy (n = 5). Relaxin was invariably present 1. in the secretory endometrium from natural cycles after day 3 postovulation (n = 28), 2. in the secretory endometrium of previously unovulatory premenopausal women taking progestogens (n = 6), and 3. in the secretory endometrium during the latter part of the cycle of postmenopausal women undergoing estrogen-progestogen replacement therapy (n = 5). Our results indicate that the occurrence of relaxin in the endometrium is progesterone-dependent, but the corpus luteum is not required for relaxin synthesis to occur in non-pregnant women. The timing of the appearance of relaxin in the endometrium during natural cycles coincides with implantation, thus suggesting a role for relaxin in the early events of human reproduction.

Seminal plasma levels of PAPP-A in normospermic and oligospermic men and tissue localization of PAPP-A in the male genital tract

Radioimmunoassay, gel filtration, isoelectric focusing, and immunoperoxidase methods were used to study the levels, properties, and localization of pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) in the human seminal plasma and male genital tract. Seminal plasma specimens from 20 normospermic and 20 oligospermic men were studied. PAPP-A was found in 30 of 40 samples, the levels ranging from undetectable to 135 micrograms/liter (median 35 micrograms/liter) in the normospermic group and from undetectable to 111 micrograms/liter (median 21 micrograms/liter) in the oligospermic group. There was no significant difference in the PAPP-A levels between the two groups, and no correlation was observed between the seminal plasma PAPP-A levels and the volume of seminal plasma or the sperm count or the viability of spermatozoa. Serial dilutions of seminal plasma and PAPP-A standard yielded parallel dose-response curves, and incubation with seminal plasma did not result in any change in the elution pattern of [125I]PAPP-A in gel filtration. PAPP-A-immunoreactive material from seminal plasma eluted as two peaks, the major one corresponding to the elution volume of purified PAPP-A and the minor eluting more slowly. The isoelectric point of seminal plasma PAPP-A was 4.3-4.7 and that of term pregnancy serum was 4.2-4.6. In the immunoperoxidase staining, PAPP-A was seen in the epithelium of the prostate, seminal vesicle, and the ampullar part of the vas deferens but not in the testis, epididymis, proximal parts of vas deferens or urethra. The results confirm the occurrence of PAPP-A in the seminal plasma but do not suggest any clinical utility for seminal plasma PAPP-A measurements.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)

The content of placental protein 12 in decidua and fetal membranes is greater than in placenta

Radioimmunoassay, gel filtration and sodium dodecyl sulphate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis were used to study the content and properties of placental protein 12 (PP12) in the placenta, decidua and fetal membranes. The tissues were obtained from early pregnancy in 12 cases, and after normal term delivery in eight cases in seven of which chorion and amnion laeve were also studied. There was more PP12 in decidua and fetal membranes than in placenta. The decidua/placenta ratio of PP12 content ranged from 2 to 1154 (mean 193, SEM 66). These results suggest that PP12 is a decidual rather than placental protein.

Monoclonal antibody defining a human syncytiotrophoblastic polypeptide immunologically related to mammalian retrovirus structural protein p30

Antigenic material previously detected in human placental trophoblastic cells by immunoperoxidase staining using a goat antiserum against the feline RD114 retrovirus structural protein p30 was isolated by immunochromatography from normal syncytiotrophoblast. The antigen was used to immunize mice, and of the monoclonal antibodies produced by murine hybridomas an IgG1 was selected which reacted in enzyme immunoassay with the syncytiotrophoblast antigen and with purified RD114. This antibody, designated HPS-1, stained normal and neoplastic syncytiotrophoblasts in a manner similar to that of the goat antibodies, detected in immunoblotting a Mr = 130 000 polypeptide in cultured human choriocarcinoma cells and reacted in spot immunoblotting tests with purified preparations of mammalian retroviruses but not with an avian retrovirus. The polypeptide antigen may represent activation of human endogenous retroviral genes in syncytiotrophoblast.

Placental protein 12 (PP12) in menstrual fluid

In a previous study we found placental protein 12 (PP12) in the human endometrium. We now show that PP12-like immunoreactive material is released into menstrual fluid where it occurs at concentrations from 43 to 32 000 micrograms/1. The PP12 levels in menstrual fluid are 2- to 2000-fold higher than in serum of the same individuals thus suggesting that the protein either concentrates or is produced in the endometrium. The addition of protease inhibitors has no effect on the PP12 levels. In radioimmunoassay, the dose-response curves of menstrual fluid PP12 and placental PP12 are parallel. Experiments with fused rocket immuno-electrophoresis show that menstrual and placental PP12 are indistinguishable from each other. In gel filtration, menstrual PP12 has the same molecular weight as that of purified placental PP12. By immuno-peroxidase staining, PP12 is localized in the glandular epithelial cells of the menstrual endometrium. The glandular localization and high concentration of PP12 in menstrual fluid, as compared with PP12 levels in serum and endometrium, suggest that PP12 may be secreted by the endometrium.

Human placental syncytiotrophoblastic Mr 75,000 polypeptide defined by antibodies to a synthetic peptide based on a cloned human endogenous retroviral DNA sequence

Antibodies to a synthetic undecapeptide (NH2-Cys-Glu-Asn-Pro-Ser-Gln-Phe-Tyr-Glu-Arg-Leu-COOH), the sequence (except cysteine) of which was deduced from a previously reported cloned human retroviral gag-gene-related DNA sequence erv-1, were raised in rabbits. In immunohistochemical staining these antibodies reacted with normal human first-trimester placentas and with blighted ova and benign and malignant trophoblastic tumors (hydatidiform and destructive moles, choriocarcinomas) but not with any other normal embryonic or adult tissues tested. In all tissues the reactivity was mainly confined to cells with trophoblastic morphology. In immunoblotting the antibody detected an Mr 75,000 polypeptide in syncytiotrophoblasts isolated from first-trimester placentas and in three different lines of cultured choriocarcinoma cells. The undecapeptide blocked the reactivity of the antibody.

The occurrence of relaxin in hyperstimulated human preovulatory follicles collected in an in vitro fertilization program

The avidin-biotin immunoperoxidase method and antisera against highly purified porcine relaxin were utilized to localize relaxin-like immunoreactivity in biopsied specimens from six preovulatory follicles from four women undergoing laparoscopy for oocyte retrieval in an in vitro fertilization program. By histological criteria, three of the follicles were luteinized and three were not. Relaxin was found in the granulosa cells of those cells which showed histological luteinization, whereas no relaxin was found in the nonluteinized preovulatory follicles. Our results show, for the first time, the occurrence of relaxin in the human ovary before ovulation and they suggest that the appearance of relaxin is related to the luteinization process.

Spatial and temporal pattern of cellular myc oncogene expression in developing human placenta: implications for embryonic cell proliferation

We have analyzed staged human placentas by Northern, dot blot, and in situ hybridization to human c-myc probes. Placental RNA exhibits a stage-specific appearance of a 2.4 kb transcript of the c-myc gene. The frequency of this transcript varies 20 to 30 fold over the course of placental development, showing a peak at 4-5 weeks after conception, where the myc transcripts comprise about 0.05% by weight of the total placental mRNA. A clear decline in placental c-myc transcription is seen before the end of the first trimester of pregnancy. In situ hybridization to 125I-labeled myc probes demonstrates an unequal spatial distribution of myc transcripts in placental with particularly high expression in the cytotrophoblastic shell of early placenta. Labeling of placental explants with 3H-thymidine, the localization of myc transcripts to cytotrophoblasts, and the temporal pattern of myc expression all support a strong correlation between myc transcript abundance and cytotrophoblast proliferation. We argue for a role for the c-myc gene in the proliferation of normal cells in this tissue.

Immunohistochemical demonstration of relaxin in the placenta after removal of the corpus luteum

We studied the occurrence of relaxin in the term placenta from a woman who had normal pregnancy after her corpus luteum had been removed at the beginning of the second trimester. Two antisera (antiserum R6 and anti-NIH-RXN-P1. 3000 U/mg) against highly purified porcine relaxin and the avidin-biotinylated anti-rabbit IgG method were used to detect relaxin-like immunoactivity. Specific staining for relaxin was seen in the placental syncytiotrophoblasts. Comparison to a placenta from a normal term delivery revealed no differences in the intensity or distribution of staining. Our case substantiates that the corpus luteum is not the only tissue producing relaxin during pregnancy.

Expression of differentiation antigens in benign sweat gland tumours

Fifty benign sweat gland tumours were studied for the expression of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and apocrine epithelial antigen (AEA), using immunohistochemical methods. CEA was found in thirty-two and AEA in thirty-three neoplasms. Both antigens were located in the epithelium of the luminal structures and in the intraluminar material and CEA was occasionally found also in proliferating cells. Co-expression of CEA and AEA occurred frequently in cases of syringoma, syringocystadenoma papilliferum, hidradenoma papilliferum, eccrine spiradenoma and clear cell hidradenoma. AEA was seen also in tumours showing eccrine differentiation, even though it is not present in normal eccrine sweat ducts.

Presence of alpha-2-macroglobulin in normal but not in malignant cervical epithelium

alpha-2-Macroglobulin (alpha 2M) was demonstrated in normal and mildly dysplastic cervical epithelium using immunohistochemical methods. In contrast, staining for alpha 2M diminished gradually with advancing epithelial dysplasia and was totally negative in truly neoplastic lesions. No in vitro synthesis could be detected in cultured ectocervical cells or in a corresponding malignant cell line (HeLa). However, alpha 2M was taken up from added human serum by cultured normal ectocervical cells, whereas HeLa cells remained negative also under these conditions. These and previous results suggest that normal cells may have the capacity to synthesize or endocytose alpha 2M, thus possibly regulating their pericellular proteolysis, while these functions may be defective in malignantly transformed cells.

Estradiol and progesterone receptors in two cases of endometrial stromal sarcoma

The presence of estradiol and progesterone receptors in endometrial stromal sarcoma (ESS) has not been studied previously. Two cases of ESS are reported in which high concentrations of these receptors were found in the tumor tissue. One of these patients had retained the reactivity to hormone treatment for several years. It is suggested that the steroid receptors should be analyzed in all cases of ESS to find tumors with a high receptor content. Hormone treatment of these patients should be part of the primary adjuvant therapy. In cases of a good response the therapy should be prolonged and continued for the rest of the patient's life.

Placental protein 12 (PP12) is induced in the endometrium by progesterone

The occurrence of PP12 was studied by the biotin-avidin immunoperoxidase method in the endometrium of 106 premenopausal and postmenopausal women at various phases of the menstrual cycle or during estrogen and progestogen replacement therapy. No PP12 was found in the endometrium under the following conditions: (1) during the proliferative phase, (2) in cystic glandular hyperplasia, (3) during the first 3 postovulatory days in ovulatory cycles, (4) in atrophic postmenopausal endometrium, and (5) in estrogen-stimulated postmenopausal endometrium. PP12 was found in the endometrium under the following conditions: (1) in the secretory endometrium from the fourth postovulatory day onward, (2) in the endometrium during progestogen treatment of previously anovulatory premenopausal women, and (3) in the endometrium from postmenopausal women treated with estrogen followed by combined estrogen and progestogen replacement therapy. These results suggest that PP12 is a P-dependent protein which, in natural cycles, appears in the endometrium around the time of implantation and, in postmenopausal women, can be induced by progestogens after estrogen priming.

Placental protein 12 (PP12) in the human endometrium: tissue concentration in relation to histology and serum levels of PP12, progesterone and oestradiol

Placental protein 12 (PP12) was measured by radio-immuno-assay in serum and endometrial extracts of 25 women at various phases of the menstrual cycle, and in the decidua from six women undergoing legal abortion in early pregnancy. The results were analysed with respect to endometrial histology and serum oestradiol, progesterone and PP12 concentrations. PP12 was detected in the secretory phase endometrium and decidua, but not in the proliferative phase endometrium. The PP12 concentration in tissue increased from early (1.3-9.4 micrograms/g protein) to late secretory phase (5.3-155 micrograms/g), and considerably higher levels were found in decidua (282-3846 micrograms/g). There was a correlation (P less than 0.001) between endometrial PP12 and serum progesterone levels in non-pregnant women, and there also was a slight correlation (P less than 0.05) between endometrial and serum PP12 concentrations. These results show that PP12 is not pregnancy specific and suggest that the occurrence of PP12 is dependent on progesterone.

Hyperstimulated human preovulatory follicular fluid, luteinized cells of unruptured follicles, and corpus luteum contain pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A)

Radioimmunoassay, gel filtration, and immunoperoxidase methods were used to study the occurrence, properties, and concentration of pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) in the human ovary and in the follicular fluid from 97 hyperstimulated follicles from 29 infertile women participating in an in vitro fertilization program. At the detection level of 15 micrograms/l, PAPP-A was found in 83 of 97 follicular fluids, the levels ranging from undetectable to 483 micrograms/l (median, 130 micrograms/l). In gel filtration, PAPP-A immunoreactivity of follicular fluid eluted in the same volume as placental PAPP-A, and the dose-response curves of follicular fluid PAPP-A and purified PAPP-A were parallel. The PAPP-A concentration was not affected by prior treatment with a protease inhibitor. Follicular fluid aspirates containing the ovum had a higher PAPP-A concentration than those in which no ovum was detected (P less than 0.01), whereas no difference was found in the PAPP-A concentrations between follicles yielding an ovum which was fertilized and cleaved and those yielding an unfertilizable oocyte. There was a correlation between PAPP-A and estradiol or progesterone concentrations, and between the PAPP-A concentration and the volume of follicular fluid aspirate. In hyperstimulated unruptured follicles, PAPP-A was localized in the luteinized granulosa and theca interna cells, but not if luteinization was not observed. Corpus luteum cells were also PAPP-A positive, whereas unstimulated Graafian follicles were negative. Our results indicate that PAPP-A appears in the hyperstimulated follicle shortly before ovulation and may thus play a part in the early events of human reproduction.

Monoclonal antibody to human T-cell leukemia virus p19 defines polypeptide antigen in human choriocarcinoma cells and syncytiotrophoblasts of first-trimester placentas

In previous studies we detected retrovirus RD114 p30-related antigen in human placental syncytiotrophoblasts and antibodies in cord blood sera. We now report that a monoclonal IgG antibody specific for the p19 protein of human T-cell leukemia virus (HTLV) reacts with human syncytiotrophoblastic antigen. When used in the immunoperoxidase tissue-staining procedure, the monoclonal antibody reacted with the syncytiotrophoblastic cells in sections of all early placentas (less than 15 weeks of gestation), blighted ova and benign (hydatidiform mole) or malignant placental tumors (destructive mole, choriocarcinoma). In all cases the reactivity was mainly confined to the cytoplasm of the cells with syncytiotrophoblastic morphology. Normal embryonal or adult tissues tested were negative. In immunoblotting of cultured choriocarcinoma cells, anti-HTLV p19 detected a single polypeptide at mol.wt 28,000 from proteins separated by electrophoresis.

Human preovulatory follicular fluid, luteinized cells of hyperstimulated preovulatory follicles, and corpus luteum contain placental protein 12

RIA gel filtration, isoelectric focusing; and immunoperoxidase staining were employed to study the occurrence and physicochemical characteristics of placental protein 12 (PP12) in the human ovary, corpus luteum, and preovulatory follicular fluid. Fluid aspirated from 75 follicles from 22 women hyperstimulated for in vitro fertilization contained 6-230 micrograms/liter PP12-like immunoreactive material. The dose-response curves of follicular fluid PP12, amniotic fluid PP12, and purified human placental PP12 were parallel in the PP12 RIA. In gel filtration, follicular fluid PP12 eluted in the same volume as purified PP12. The isoelectric point of follicular fluid PP12 was 4.9 and that of purified placental PP12 4.6-4.7. A positive correlation was found between follicular fluid estradiol and PP12, progesterone and PP12, and follicular fluid volume and PP12 concentrations. By immunoperoxidase staining, PP12 was not detectable in unstimulated ovarian tissue before ovulation. In hyperstimulated preovulatory follicles biopsied in connection with follicle aspiration, PP12 was found in the granulosa cells which were luteinized (n = 3), whereas in those hyperstimulated follicles (n = 5) with no luteinization, no PP12 was found either. PP12 was seen in all corpora lutea (n = 5) from unstimulated menstrual cycles. These results show that the occurrence of PP12 is not limited to the placenta. The correlation between follicular fluid steroid and PP12 levels and the findings by immunoperoxidase staining suggest that PP12 is related to endocrine phenomena of the ovary, possibly to the luteinization process.

Expression of differentiation antigens in mammary and extramammary Paget's disease

Seven cases of mammary and twelve cases of extramammary Paget's disease were studied for the presence of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) and apocrine epithelial antigen (AEA) using the immunoperoxidase technique. CEA was found in the Paget cells in five out of seven mammary and in all twelve cases of extramammary Paget's disease, whereas the AEA reaction was positive in six mammary and all extramammary cases. The same antigens were also found in the cells of intraductal or ductal adenocarcinomas of the breast associated with mammary Paget's disease, suggesting a common origin for the cells. In the cases of extramammary Paget's disease studied no underlying malignant neoplasms could be detected. Our findings support the suggestion that Paget cells originate in sweat gland ducts and undergo an apocrine differentiation.

Pregnancy-associated plasma protein A in the human endometrium is dependent on the effect of progesterone

The biotin-avidin immunoperoxidase method was used to study pregnancy-associated plasma protein A (PAPP-A) in the endometrium of 102 pre- or postmenopausal women. Endometria in the proliferative phase (n = 27) or early secretory phase (days 1-3 postovulation; n = 12), cystic glandular hyperplasia (n = 12), and postmenopausal endometria of untreated (n = 7) or estrogen-treated (n = 5) women were all PAPP-A negative. By contrast, PAPP-A was invariably present in the endometrium during the normal secretory phase after day 3 of ovulation (n = 28), during cyclic progestogen treatment of pre-menopausal women (n = 6), and during estrogen-progestogen replacement therapy of postmenopausal women (n = 5). These results suggest that the occurrence of PAPP-A in the endometrium is progesterone dependent.

Estradiol and progesterone receptors in gynecologic sarcomas

We report the concentrations of estradiol and progesterone receptors found in the tumor tissue of 5 patients with leiomyosarcoma, 4 of uterine and one of ventricular origin, and of 5 patients with uterine or ovarian carcinosarcoma. Steroid receptor positive and negative tumors were present in both groups of sarcoma. One uterine leiomyosarcoma had a high concentration of estradiol and progesterone receptors, 37 fmoles/mg protein and 156 fmoles/mg protein, respectively. We suggest that steroid receptors should be analysed in all gynecologic sarcomas.

Hyperstimulated human preovulatory follicular fluid contains placental protein 5 (PP5)

Placental protein 5 (PP5)-like immunoreactivity was found in 22 of 28 fluids aspirated from hyperstimulated preovulatory follicles of women who participated in an in vitro fertilization program. When detectable, the PP5 levels varied from 7 to 67 micrograms/l, which are of the same order of magnitude as those seen in pregnancy sera. In gel filtration, the PP5-like immunoreactivity of follicular fluid eluted in the same volume as purified human placental PP5; and in radioimmunoassay, this substance gave an inhibition curve which was parallel to that of the PP5 standard. A positive correlation was observed between the follicular fluid concentration of estradiol and PP5 (r = 0.60; P less than 0.001), but not between the levels of progesterone, testosterone, or follicular volume and the PP5 concentration. In light of the protease inhibitor nature of PP5, its detection in preovulatory follicular fluid is intriguing in relation to its possible role in the rupture of the follicle.

Growth and function of human placenta and amnion grafted to nude mice. A preliminary communication

Normal human placenta and amnion from the 20th week of pregnancy were transplanted into nude mice. The transplants retained the histological and immunohistochemical picture of the original tissue and maintained synthesis of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), pregnancy-specific beta 1-glycoprotein (SP1), GnRH and placental proteins PP5, PP11 and PP12 for 5 weeks. This experimental model has a wide potential application for studies on placental protein synthesis and the hormonal influence of human placenta on other simultaneously transplanted human tissues.

Follicular fluid steroid levels and ovarian steroid secretion in polycystic ovarian disease

Comparison of the plasma levels of steroids between ovarian and peripheral venous blood in polycystic ovarian disease revealed that polycystic ovaries secreted androstenedione, testosterone, dihydrotestosterone, dehydroepiandrosterone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone significantly more than healthy ovaries at the early follicular phase of the cycle, whereas the levels of estradiol and progesterone did not differ from the control values. Follicular cyst fluid from polycystic ovaries showed significantly higher concentrations of testosterone, androstenedione jand dehydroepiandrosterone and much lower levels of estrone, estradiol, progesterone and 17-hydroxyprogesterone than follicular fluid from healthy preovulatory follicles. Testosterone and estradiol did not, however, show any significant difference when follicles in polycystic ovaries were compared to those in healthy ovaries at early follicular phase of the cycle. According to these findings follicle development in polycystic ovaries is arrested at a stage corresponding to the early follicular phase of the cycle. Increased androgen and 17-hydroxyprogesterone secretion by polycystic ovaries seems to originate mainly from the hyperplastic theca interna cells.