Drug biotransformation in the placenta

Activities of xenobiotic metabolizing enzymes in rat placenta and liver in vitro

In order to assess whether the placental metabolism of xenobiotic compounds should be taken into consideration for physiologically-based toxicokinetic (PBTK) modelling, the activities of seven phase I and phase II enzymes have been quantified in the 18-day placenta of untreated Wistar rats. To determine their relative contribution, these activities were compared to those of untreated adult male rat liver, using commonly accepted assays. The enzymes comprised cytochrome P450 (CYP), flavin-containing monooxygenase (FMO), alcohol dehydrogenase (ADH), aldehyde dehydrogenase (ALDH), esterase, UDP-glucuronosyltransferase (UGT), and glutathione S-transferase (GST). In contrast to liver, no activities were measurable for 7-ethylresorufin-O-dealkylase (CYP1A), 7-pentylresorufin-O-dealkylase (CYP2B), 7-benzylresorufin-O-dealkylase (CYP2B, 2C and 3 A), UGT1, UGT2 and GST in placenta, indicating that the placental activity of these enzymes was well below their hepatic activity. Low activities in placenta were determined for FMO (4%), and esterase (8%), whereas the activity of placental ADH and ALDH accounted for 35% and 40% of the hepatic activities, respectively. In support of the negligible placental CYP activity, testosterone and six model azole fungicides, which were readily metabolized by rat hepatic microsomes, failed to exhibit any metabolic turnover with rat placental microsomes. Hence, with the possible exception of ADH and ALDH, the activities of xenobiotic-metabolizing enzymes in rat placenta are too low to warrant consideration in PBTK modelling.

Assisted reproduction technologies alter steroid delivery to the mouse fetus during pregnancy

Assisted reproduction technologies (ART) include in vitro fertilization (IVF) and intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), and are common treatments for infertility. Although generally successful, ART warrant further investigations due to emerging perinatal issues, especially low birth weight. Herein we extend our previous work demonstrating higher steroid clearance in murine ART placentas by examining steroid biosynthesis and the directional flow of steroids in the maternal-placental-fetal units. The activities of the major steroidogenic enzymes 3β-hydroxysteroid dehydrogenase (3β-HSD) and cytochrome P450 17-αhydroxylase (CYP17) were assessed in maternal liver and ovaries and fetal livers as were levels of cholesterol, progesterone, estrone (E1), and estradiol (E2) in the maternal, placental and fetal units. No structural abnormalities were found in placentas from ART. Although ART increased 3β-HSD activity in maternal livers, there were no other changes in 3β-HSD- or CYP17-mediated steroidogenesis. Cholesterol levels were significantly lower in maternal livers of ICSI pregnancies and in placentas from both IVF and ICSI pregnancies but not altered in the fetal livers. Progesterone levels were higher in maternal and fetal livers in IVF and ICSI, respectively, but were significantly lowered in ICSI placentas, compared to normal fertilization. For estrogenic hormones, no differences in E1 or E2 levels were observed in maternal livers but ICSI significantly increased both E1 and E2 levels in placentas while both IVF and ICSI significantly lowered E1 but raised E2 levels in fetal livers. In summary, while steroid production was normal, steroid diffusion/flow from mother to fetus was altered in murine pregnancies conceived by ART. This appears to occur, at least in part; through placental mechanisms. Impaired cholesterol and steroid transfer may affect correct regulation of fetal growth and development.

Common problems in critically ill obstetric patients, with an emphasis on pharmacotherapy

Pharmacological treatment of critically ill obstetric patients can be especially challenging due to the complexity of caring for 2 patients, with a paucity of research to support practice. This review will provide practitioners with primary recommendations for management of the critical illnesses most commonly encountered in pregnancy and will discuss the scientific and clinical merit of these recommendations.

Identification of glyburide metabolites formed by hepatic and placental microsomes of humans and baboons

Glyburide (glibenclamide) is a second-generation sulfonylurea used for treatment of type-2 and gestational diabetes mellitus. To date, two glyburide metabolites have been identified in maternal urine: namely, 4-trans-hydroxycyclohexyl glyburide and 3-cis-hydroxycyclohexyl glyburide. The use of glyburide to treat gestational diabetes prompted us to investigate its metabolism by the placenta. The metabolism of glyburide by microsomal preparations from human and baboon placenta was compared with metabolism by their livers. The metabolites formed by the microsomes of the four tissues were identified by high-performance liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry using retention times, ion current (extracted at m/z 510), and selected-ion monitoring. The data obtained revealed the formation of six distinct hydroxylated derivatives of glyburide by each of the four microsomal preparations. However, the amounts of the six metabolites formed by the placentas were a fraction of that formed by the livers. Moreover, the relative quantities of each metabolite formed differed between species as well as between the two tissues. Also, the structure of the unidentified metabolites was determined by comparison with synthesized standards. These metabolites were identified as the 4-cis-hydroxycyclohexyl glyburide, 3-trans-hydroxycyclohexyl glyburide, and 2-trans-hydroxycyclohexyl glyburide. Therefore, one glyburide metabolite remains to be identified, but the data we obtained allowed us to suggest its structure.

Challenges identifying genetic determinants of pediatric cancers--the childhood leukemia experience

Pediatric cancers affect approximately 1 in every 500 children before the age of 15. Little is known about the etiology of this heterogeneous group of diseases despite the fact they constitute the major cause of death by disease among this population. Because of its relatively high prevalence, most of the work done in pediatric oncogenetics has been focused on leukemias, particularly acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL). Although it is now well accepted that genetic variation plays a significant role in determining individual's cancer susceptibility, few studies have explored genetic susceptibility to childhood leukemia with respect to common polymorphisms. The biochemical and genetic mechanisms contributing to cancer susceptibility are numerous and can be grouped into broad categories: (1) cellular growth and differentiation, (2) DNA replication and repair, (3) metabolism of carcinogens (4) apoptosis, (5) oxidative stress response and (6) cell cycle. To evaluate whether candidate genes in these pathways are involved in childhood leukemogenesis, we conducted case-control studies. We showed that leukemogenesis in children may be associated with DNA variants in some of these genes and that the combination of genotypes seems to be more predictive of risk than either of them independently. We also observed that, at least at some loci, the parental genetics might be important in predicting the risk of cancer in this pediatric model of a complex disease. Taken together, these results indicate that the investigation of a single enzyme and/or a single genotype might not be sufficient to explain the etiology of childhood leukemia because of the complexity of the environment and that of the inter-individual variability in cancer susceptibility.

Differential accumulation of low-chlorinated (Delor 103) and high-chlorinated (Delor 106) biphenyls in human placental tissue and opposite effects on conversion of DHEA to E2

OBJECTIVE

Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and related compounds elicit a diverse spectrum of toxic responses. Additionally, they are able to pass through the human placenta. The aim of the presented data was to compare the action of low-chlorinated (Delor 103) and (Delor 106) high-chlorinated biphenyls on placental steroidogenesis.

METHODS

Explants of human placental tissue were used to test differences in PCBs accumulation and influence on placental steroidogenesis. Delor 103 or 106, were added daily for six days at a dose of 200 pg from day 0 to day 6 of culture. The media in the control and experimental groups were changed every day, and collected and frozen for steroid analysis by RIA. Determinations of PCBs of tissue and medium were analysed by GC/MS/MS.

RESULTS

Delor 103 was found at a higher level in the tissue than Delor 106. The first day of exposure to Delor 103 had no effect on the conversion of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) to estradiol (E2) while there was a 2-fold decrease in E2 secretion from days 3 to 6. Conversely, Delor 106 caused an immediate increase in E2 secretion, which was maintained at higher levels throughout the exposure period.

CONCLUSION

Differences between the accumulation of lower chlorinated and higher chlorinated biphenyls in human placental tissue and in the properties of the congeners can have multiple effects that may intensify or counteract the effects on uterine contraction by PCBs.

Induction of cytochrome P450 isozymes by phenobarbital in pregnant rat and fetal livers and placenta

Cytochrome P450 (CYP) isozymes are important in metabolizing xenobiotics. They are found in extrahepatic tissues such as placenta as well as liver. Previously, we reported that CYP3A1 was detected in the cytoplasm of giant cells in the trophoblastic region of placenta of rats through pregnancy. In this study, we examined the changes in the expression of CYP proteins in the pregnant rat and fetal livers and placenta after treatment with phenobarbital (PB), one of the antiepileptic drugs which is well known to induce several phase I and phase II drug metabolizing enzymes in the liver. Namely, F344 pregnant rats were treated with PB (80 mg/kg, i.p.) from 13 days of gestation (DG) to 16 DG. All animals were sacrificed on 17 DG, and Western blot analysis and immunohistochemical staining on nine CYP proteins (CYP1A1, CYP2B1, CYP2C6, CYP2C12, CYP2D1, CYP2D4, CYP2E1, CYP3A1, and CYP4A1) and histological examination were done in the dam's liver, placenta, and the fetal liver. Western blot analysis revealed that CYP3A1 protein was significantly induced, CYP2B1 protein was detected, and CYP2D1 protein was significantly decreased in the dam's liver after PB-treatment. In placenta, only CYP3A1 was detected with no difference between control and PB-treated animals. The results of immunohistochemical staining corresponded closely to those of Western blot analysis in the dam's liver and placenta. In the fetal liver, CYP3A1 and CYP2C6 proteins were significantly induced after the PB-treatment, but their immunostainability was not prominent. The present results are considered useful as a basis for further investigation of drug metabolism in pregnant animals.

Genetic polymorphism of CYP1A1, CYP2D6, GSTM1 and GSTT1 and susceptibility to acute lymphoblastic leukaemia in Indian children

BACKGROUND

Biotransformation plays a crucial role in carcinogen activity and many genetic polymorphisms in xenobiotic metabolising enzymes have been associated with an increased risk of cancer. Such polymorphisms can lead to considerable variation in the activities of these enzymes, which are crucial in carcinogen and drug metabolism. These variations could play a role in the risk of developing paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL) by their varying action on environmental carcinogens.

PROCEDURE

The present study looked for two polymorphisms (m1 and m2) in the CYP1A1, CYP2D6*4 genes and deletions of the glutathione S-transferases (GSTM1 and GSTT1) in 118 paediatric ALL patients and 118 age matched control children. The polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP) were used to study gene polymorphisms.

RESULTS

In children with ALL, CYP1A1 m1 polymorphism was evident in 42.4% of subjects and CYP1A1 m2 in 37.3%. These were significantly different from the results obtained for control children (20.3% for CYP1A1 m1 and 19.5% for m2). Subjects with CYP1A1 m1 homozygous variant had a sixfold risk and CYP1A1 m2 a fourfold risk. In contrast, CYP2D6*4 was more prevalent in the controls than in the cases. Subjects with GSTM1 deletions had increased risk of ALL (OR = 2.1, P = 0.009). The odds ratios for both CYP1A1 m1 and m2 homozygous polymorphisms being associated with childhood ALL was 5.67 (95% CI = 2.11-15.27). The odds ratios for both GSTM1 and GSTT1 deletions being associated with ALL was 2.78 (95% CI = 0.67-11.56).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that genetic polymorphisms of xenobiotic metabolising enzymes appear to influence susceptibility to childhood ALL.

Methadone metabolism by human placenta

Methadone pharmacotherapy is considered the standard for treatment of the pregnant heroin/opioid addict. One of the factors affecting the transfer kinetics of opioids across human placenta and their levels in the fetal circulation is their metabolism by the tissue. The aim of this investigation is to identify the enzyme(s) responsible for the metabolism of methadone, determine the kinetics of the reaction and the metabolites formed utilizing placental tissue obtained from term healthy pregnancies. Microsomal fractions of trophoblast tissue homogenates had the highest activity in catalyzing the metabolism of methadone. The product formed was identified by HPLC-UV as 2-ethylidine-1,5-dimethyl-3,3-diphenylpyrrolidine (EDDP). Inhibitors selective for cytochrome P450 (CYP) isozymes were used to identify the enzyme catalyzing the biotransformation of methadone. Aminoglutethimide and 4-hydroxyandrostenedione inhibited EDDP formation by 88 and 70%, respectively, suggesting that CYP19/aromatase is the enzyme catalyzing the reaction. This was confirmed by the effect of monoclonal antibodies raised against CYP19 that caused an 80% inhibition of the reaction. The apparent K(m) and V(max) values for the CYP19 catalyzed metabolism of methadone to EDDP were 424 +/- 92 microM and 420 +/- 89 pmol(mgprotein)(-1)min(-1), respectively. Kinetic analysis of a cDNA-expressed CYP19 for the metabolism of methadone to EDDP was identical to that by placental microsomes. Taken together, these data indicate that CYP19/aromatase is the major enzyme responsible for the metabolism of methadone to EDDP in term human placentas obtained from healthy pregnancies.

N-demethylation of levo-alpha-acetylmethadol by human placental aromatase

Levo-alpa-acetylmethadol (LAAM) is a methadone derivative used to treat the opiate addict. We previously reported on the kinetics for transplacental transfer of LAAM and its levels in the fetal circuit using the technique of dual perfusion of the placental lobule. The aim of this investigation was to identify the enzyme responsible for the biotransformation of LAAM and norLAAM and the metabolites formed in the term human placenta. Placental microsomes exhibited higher activities than the mitochondrial and cytosolic fractions in metabolizing LAAM to norLAAM. None of these subcellular fractions catalyzed the formation of dinorLAAM from either LAAM or norLAAM as determined by HPLC/UV. Evidence obtained from the effects of cytochrome P450 (CYP) inhibitors on the demethylation of LAAM to norLAAM by placental microsomes suggested that CYP 19/aromatase is the major enzyme involved. Out of 10 monoclonal antibodies raised against various CYP isoforms, only that for aromatase caused over 80% inhibition of norLAAM formation. The biotransformation of LAAM to norLAAM exhibited monophasic kinetics with apparent Km and Vmax values of 105 +/- 57 microM and 86.8 +/- 15.6 pmol mg(-1) protein min(-1), respectively. The kinetic profile determined for a cDNA-expressed CYP 19 metabolism of LAAM to norLAAM was similar to that determined for placental microsomes. Taken together, the above data indicate that CYP 19/aromatase is the enzyme responsible for the N-demethylation of LAAM to norLAAM in term human placentas obtained from healthy pregnant women.

Glutathione S-Transferases and Esterases in Placenta after Normal and Pre-eclamptic Pregnancies

Severe pre-eclampsia reduced significantly (P<0.05) by 68+/-6 per cent (mean+/-sem, n=10) the maximal velocity (V(max)) and, consequently, reduced significantly by 60+/-7 per cent the catalytic efficiency (C(E)) of placental glutathione transferase pi, assayed with ethacrynic acid. Mild and severe pre-eclampsia reduced significantly by 82+/-5 per cent (mean+/-sem, n=5) and by 41+/-5 per cent (mean+/-sem, n=10), respectively, the V(max)and, consequently, reduced significantly by 72+/-7 and by 33+/-13 per cent, respectively, the C(E)of esterase, assayed with p-nitrophenyl acetate. Furthermore, severe pre-eclampsia increased significantly by 296+/-78 per cent the Michaelis-Menten constant (K(m)) of total GST, assayed with chlorodinitrobenzene and, consequently, decreased significantly the C(E)by 83+/-3 per cent. On the other hand, the concentrations of total and non-protein thiols did not change significantly in placental homogenates from patients with mild or severe pre-eclampsia compared to normal pregnancies. These findings would indicate a decreased capacity of the glutathione transferases and esterase detoxification systems to protect the fetus from drugs prescribed to pregnant women suffering pre-eclampsia, mainly in the severe phase.

Incorporating children's toxicokinetics into a risk framework

Children's responses to environmental toxicants will be affected by the way in which their systems absorb, distribute, metabolize, and excrete chemicals. These toxicokinetic factors vary during development, from in utero where maternal and placental processes play a large role, to the neonate in which emerging metabolism and clearance pathways are key determinants. Toxicokinetic differences between neonates and adults lead to the potential for internal dosimetry differences and increased or decreased risk, depending on the mechanisms for toxicity and clearance of a given chemical. This article raises a number of questions that need to be addressed when conducting a toxicokinetic analysis of in utero or childhood exposures. These questions are organized into a proposed framework for conducting the assessment that involves problem formulation (identification of early life stage toxicokinetic factors and chemical-specific factors that may raise questions/concerns for children); data analysis (development of analytic approach, construction of child/adult or child/animal dosimetry comparisons); and risk characterization (evaluation of how children's toxicokinetic analysis can be used to decrease uncertainties in the risk assessment). The proposed approach provides a range of analytical options, from qualitative to quantitative, for assessing children's dosimetry. Further, it provides background information on a variety of toxicokinetic factors that can vary as a function of developmental stage. For example, the ontology of metabolizing systems is described via reference to pediatric studies involving therapeutic drugs and evidence from in vitro enzyme studies. This type of resource information is intended to help the assessor begin to address the issues raised in this paper.

A framework for assessing risks to children from exposure to environmental agents

In recent years there has been an increasing focus in environmental risk assessment on children as a potentially susceptible population. There also has been growing recognition of the need for a systematic approach for organizing, evaluating, and incorporating the available data on children's susceptibilities in risk assessments. In this article we present a conceptual framework for assessing risks to children from environmental exposures. The proposed framework builds on the problem formulation-->analysis-->risk characterization paradigm, identifying at each phase the questions and issues of particular importance for characterizing risks to the developing organism (from conception through organ maturation). The framework is presented and discussed from the complementary perspectives of toxicokinetics and toxicodynamics.

Aromatase is the major enzyme metabolizing buprenorphine in human placenta

Buprenorphine (BUP) is a partial opiate agonist used for treatment of the adult and the pregnant addicted to this class of narcotics. The kinetic parameters for transplacental transfer and the metabolism of BUP during its perfusion in a placental lobule were the subject of an earlier report from our laboratory. The aim of this investigation is to identify and characterize the enzyme catalyzing the metabolism of BUP in term human placenta. Norbuprenorphine (norBUP) is the only metabolite formed as determined by high performance liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry. The activity of the enzyme responsible for BUP metabolism is highest in the microsomal fraction and lowest in the cytosolic, with the mitochondrial in between. Compounds with selective affinity to the enzyme aromatase (CYP 19), namely 4-hydroxyandrostenedione and aminoglutethimide, caused >70% inhibition of norBUP formation. Monoclonal antibodies raised against CYP 19 were the most potent inhibitors of BUP dealkylation. A comparison between the data obtained from the saturation isotherm for BUP dealkylation by placental microsomes and a commercially available system of cDNA-expressed CYP 19 indicated similar kinetic parameters, with apparent Km values of 12 +/- 4.0 and 14 +/- 8.0 microM, respectively. Therefore, aromatase is the major enzyme catalyzing the biotransformation of BUP to norBUP in term human placentas obtained from healthy pregnancies. The minor involvement of other cytochrome P450 isoforms or enzyme(s) in the metabolism of BUP in placental tissue cannot be ruled out.

The presence of xenobiotic transporters in rat placenta

Understanding the role of transporters in placental handling of xenobiotics across the maternal-fetal interface is essential to evaluate the pharmacological and toxicological potential of therapeutic agents, drugs of abuse, and other xenobiotics to which the mother is exposed during pregnancy. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess mRNA levels of various transporters in placenta and to compare these to levels in maternal liver and kidney, predominant organs of excretion, to determine which transporters are likely to have a role in xenobiotic transfer within the placenta. During late stage pregnancy, relative amounts of mRNA levels of 40 genes representing 11 families/group of transporters were assessed in placenta with respect to relative maternal liver and kidney mRNA levels. Members of the following transporter families were assessed: three multidrug resistance (Mdr), six multidrug resistance-associated protein (Mrp), eight organic anion-transporting polypeptide (Oatp), three organic anion transporters (Oat), five organic cation transporters (Oct), two bile acid transporters (Na(+)/taurocholate-cotransporting polypeptide and bile salt export protein), four metal (ZnT1, divalent metal transporter 1, Menkes and Wilsons), a prostaglandin, two peptide, two sterolin, and four nucleoside transporters. Of the 40 genes evaluated, 16 [Mdr1a and 1b, Mrp1 and 5, Oct3 and Octn1, Oatp3 and 12, four metal, a prostaglandin, AbcG8, equilibrative nucleoside transporter 1 (ENT1), and ENT2] were expressed in placenta at concentrations similar to or higher than in maternal liver and kidney. The abundance of these mRNA transcripts in placenta suggests a role for these transporters in placental transport of xenobiotics and supports their role in the transport of endogenous substances.

Expression of cytochrome P450 (CYP) isozymes in rat placenta through pregnancy

The placenta plays a vital role in maintenance of pregnancy and is able to metabolize many foreign chemical compounds by cytochrome P450 (CYP) system. It is very important to clarify the expression of CYPs in the rat placenta, because rats are frequently and widely used in the embryo- and feto-toxicity studies on foreign chemical compounds. In this study, we investigated the changes in the expression and localization of CYPs protein in the placenta of F344 rats at 9, 11, 13, 16 and 19 days of gestation by Western blot analysis and immunohistochemical staining. Among nine isozymes examined (CYP1A1, 2B1, 2C6, 2C12, 2D1, 2D4, 2E1, 3A1 and 4A1), only CYP3A1 was clearly detected by Western blot analysis at all days of gestation examined. Immunohistochemically, the cytoplasm of giant cells in the trophoblastic region was positively stained by anti-CYP3A1 antibodies. These results suggest that CYP3A1 may be a major component of CYP system in the rat placenta.

Dose-related differences in the distribution of cocaine in the maternal-fetoplacental compartments in rats

Our goals were to examine whether a high dose of cocaine to causing CNS toxic manifestations in the pregnant rats influences the delivery of cocaine to the fetus, and whether the non-placental compartments have a significant role in the distribution of cocaine to the fetal tissues. Either a low or high dose of cocaine was infused intravenously to near-term pregnant rats. Arterial blood pressure and heart rate were monitored. Cardiac output and uterine and placental blood flows were measured by using radiolabeled microspheres. Plasma and tissue samples were obtained from the mother, placenta, and fetus and analyzed for cocaine and its metabolites via capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. A high dose of cocaine induced convulsions that were accompanied by increased arterial blood pressure and decreased uteroplacental blood flow. However, the distribution pattern of cocaine and metabolites in the mother and fetus were similar between the high and low dose groups. Considerable amounts of cocaine and its metabolites were in the placenta. Previously ignored non-placental tissues, such as the amnion and myometrium appear to be a significant source for cocaine accumulation in the fetus.

Genetic susceptibility to childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia

Acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common pediatric cancer. The origin of this disease can be explained by a combination of genetic susceptibility factors and environmental exposures. For the purpose of our study it can be considered as a complex disease, caused by the "carcinogenic" effect of the environment modified by a series of genes. In population, these genes tend to occur in allelic forms representing functional polymorphisms thus explaining inter-individual variability in cancer susceptibility. The latter can be evaluated more realistically in childhood ALL than in sporadic cancers of the adult because of its relatively short latency period. We asked therefore, the question about the role of genes controlling the efficiency of xenobiotics metabolism in childhood leukemogenesis. Xenobiotics (drugs and carcinogens) are excreted from the body after metabolic conversion by enzymes mediating oxidation activation (Phase I) and conjugation detoxificaton (Phase II). Functional variants of these enzymes, resulting from known DNA polymorphisms in the corresponding genes, were shown to influence the risk to a variety of solid tumours in adults. A case-control study on ALL patients and healthy controls in a French-Canadian population was carried out by examining the loci of Phase I, CYP1A1 and CYP2D6, as well as Phase II enzymes, GSTM1, GSTT1, NAT1 and NAT2. The NAT2 slow-acetylator, CYP1A1*2A and GSTM1 null genotypes were shown to be significant risk determinants of ALL (OR=1.6, 1.8 and 1.8, respectively), whereas, polymorphisms in CYP2D6 and GSTT1 genes did not seem to play an important role in the aetiology of ALL. Interestingly, the risk associated with NAT2 slow-acetylators was most apparent among males homozygous for NAT1*4 (OR=3.3) whereas girls carrying the CYP1A1*4 allele were significantly underrepresented in the patient group (OR=0.2). These findings point to a gender-specific effect of DNA variants which, at least in part, may explain why ALL is more prevalent among boys. To assess gene-gene interactions, NAT2 slow-acetylators were considered together with GSTM1 null genotypes and CYP1A1*2A alleles. The combined presence of two risk-elevating genotypes appeared to confer an increased risk of ALL among the carriers (OR=2.6). This risk was increased further (OR=3.3) when all three genotypes occurred in the same individuals indicating that the combination of susceptibility variants is more predictive of risk then either of them independently. The association of leukemogenesis in children with metabolising gene variants suggests causal relation to environmental exposures.

Purification and partial characterization of peroxidase from human term placenta of non-smokers: metabolism of benzo(a)pyrene-7, 8-dihydrodiol

Peroxidase (Donor: H(2)O(2)oxidoreductase EC 1.11.1.7) from human term placentae of non-smokers was purified to homogeneity by a combination of NH(4)Cl extraction, affinity chromatography, (NH(4))(2)SO(4)precipitation, ion-exchange and gel filtration chromatography. The homogeneity of purified human placental peroxidase (HTPP) was confirmed by gel filtration, reverse phase high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) and SDS-PAGE. Peroxidase was found to be a membrane bound enzyme. A high concentration of NH(4)Cl (1.2 m) was needed to extract and solublize the enzyme. Removal of the salt resulted in irreversible precipitation of the enzyme. The protein exhibited a molecular mass of 126 000 kDa according to gel filtration and approximately 60 000 kDa by SDS-PAGE, indicating that the peroxidase is a homodimer. The purified peroxidase showed an optimum pH range of 7 to 8.5 and the K(m)for H(2)O(2)and guaiacol were found to be 0.08 m m and 10.0 m m, respectively. The purified peroxidase oxidized several substrates, namely potassium iodide, tetramethyl benzidine, guaiacol, ortho dianisidne and tyrosine. The enzyme was resistant to thermal denaturation up to 70 degrees C and also to chaotropic agents, guanidinium chloride and urea. Spectral properties indicated the presence of Soret band at 433 which shifted to 451 nm on complexation with cyanide. The circular dichroism studies showed that HTPP has a predominantly helical secondary structure. The enzyme showed similarities to the myeloperoxidase with regard to spectral and catalytical properties but differed significantly in amino acid composition, the R(z)value and molecular mass. Purified HTPP differed from eosinophil peroxidase in all physico-chemical properties indicating that it is not of eosinophil origin, but may represent a distinct, constitutive peroxidase in human placenta. Further, purified peroxidase catalyzed oxidation of benzo(a)pyrene-7, 8-dihydrodiol in presence of tyrosine and hydrogen peroxide to BP-tetrols, the hydrolytic products of BP-diol-epoxides, demonstrating the ability of peroxidase in bioactivation of benzo(a)pyrene in human placenta.

Report on intrauterine drug exposure during second trimester of pregnancy in a heroin-associated death

A 17-year-old girl was found dead in a public toilet with fresh needle puncture marks. She was 18-20 weeks pregnant with a male fetus. Drug screening of her blood and urine indicated recent heroin use. Chronic drug use was confirmed by hair analysis. Amniotic fluid as well as fetal and maternal tissues and body fluids were analyzed by GC/MS and HPLC. All the fetal specimens were investigated, and the following levels of drugs were found: 6-monoacetyl-morphine (blood: 152 ng/g; amniotic fluid: 128 ng/g; brain: 140 ng/g; lung: 110 ng/g; liver: 2 ng/g; kidney: 40 ng/g), morphine (blood: 1360 ng/g; amniotic fluid: 604 ng/g; brain: 710 ng/g; lung: 1030 ng/g; liver: 2060 ng/g; kidney: 1100 ng/g), codeine (blood: 70 ng/g; brain: 60 ng/g; lung: 60 ng/g; liver: 90 ng/g; kidney: 70 ng/g), and morphine-3-glucuronide (amniotic fluid: 209 ng/g; brain: 170 ng/g; lung: 325 ng/g; kidney: 231 ng/g). Morphine-6-glucuronide was present in the maternal circulation but could not be detected in the fetal circulation.

Susceptibility to Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Influence of CYP1A1, CYP2D6, GSTM1, and GSTT1 Genetic Polymorphisms

Although acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer, factors governing susceptibility to this disease have not yet been identified. As such, ALL offers a useful opportunity to examine the glutathione S-transferase and cytochrome P450 genes in determining susceptibility to pediatric cancers. Both enzymes are involved in carcinogen metabolism and have been shown to influence the risk a variety of solid tumors in adults. To determine whether these genes played a similar role in childhood leukemogenesis, we compared the allele frequencies of 177 childhood ALL patients and 304 controls for the CYP1A1, CYP2D6, GSTM1, and GSTT1 genes. We chose the French population of Quebec as our study population because of its relative genetic homogeneity. The GSTM1 null and CYP1A1*2A genotypes were both found to be significant predictors of ALL risk (odds ratio [OR] = 1.8). Those possessing both genotypes were at an even greater risk of developing the disease (OR = 3.3). None of the other alleles tested for proved to be significant indicators of ALL risk. Unexpectedly, girls carrying the CYP1A1∗4 were significantly underrepresented in the ALL group (OR = 0.2), suggesting that a gender-specific protective role exists for this allele. These results suggest that the risk of ALL may indeed be associated with xenobiotics-metabolism, and thus with environmental exposures. Our findings may also explain, in part, why ALL is more prevalent among males than females.

Susceptibility to Childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia: Influence of CYP1A1, CYP2D6, GSTM1, and GSTT1 Genetic Polymorphisms

Although acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) is the most common childhood cancer, factors governing susceptibility to this disease have not yet been identified. As such, ALL offers a useful opportunity to examine the glutathione S-transferase and cytochrome P450 genes in determining susceptibility to pediatric cancers. Both enzymes are involved in carcinogen metabolism and have been shown to influence the risk a variety of solid tumors in adults. To determine whether these genes played a similar role in childhood leukemogenesis, we compared the allele frequencies of 177 childhood ALL patients and 304 controls for the CYP1A1, CYP2D6, GSTM1, and GSTT1 genes. We chose the French population of Quebec as our study population because of its relative genetic homogeneity. The GSTM1 null and CYP1A1*2A genotypes were both found to be significant predictors of ALL risk (odds ratio [OR] = 1.8). Those possessing both genotypes were at an even greater risk of developing the disease (OR = 3.3). None of the other alleles tested for proved to be significant indicators of ALL risk. Unexpectedly, girls carrying the CYP1A1∗4 were significantly underrepresented in the ALL group (OR = 0.2), suggesting that a gender-specific protective role exists for this allele. These results suggest that the risk of ALL may indeed be associated with xenobiotics-metabolism, and thus with environmental exposures. Our findings may also explain, in part, why ALL is more prevalent among males than females.

Formation and retention of cotinine during placental transfer of nicotine in human placental cotyledon

Maternal smoking during pregnancy causes reduction of fetal breathing movements, an effect attributed to nicotine in fetal blood. Nicotine is metabolized to cotinine which has a long plasma half-life and exhibits slow clearance across membrane barriers. It is also known to activate placental phospholipase-A2-like enzymes, resulting in formation of prostaglandins. Therefore, we studied transport of nicotine in isolated perfused cotyledon of normal human term placenta. The placental cotyledon was perfused with aerated (21% O2, 5% CO2) Krebs-Ringer bicarbonate buffer (pH 7.4, 37 degrees C) containing 2% albumin on both maternal (230 ml, 15 ml/min, 35 mm Hg) and fetal (93 ml, 1.75 ml/min, 70 mm Hg) sides in a closed recirculating system. Nicotine (2 mg) was added to the maternal perfusate; perfusate samples (1 ml) were collected from both sides at regular intervals and analyzed for nicotine and cotinine by high-pressure liquid chromatography. This study gave the following results: (1) In about 60-80 min, 18.6% of the nicotine added to the maternal perfusate was transferred to the fetal perfusate, and the maternal/fetal concentration ratio reached 1.0. These results show rapid placental transfer of nicotine, consistent with its high lipid solubility. (2) Less than 1% is metabolized to cotinine in placenta. The ratio of cotinine concentrations in maternal and fetal perfusates reached 1.0 in about 40 min. These studies were also verified using 14C-nicotine. (3) Maximal reduction in fetal breathing movements occurs at about 30 min, and recovery occurs at 90 min after tobacco smoking by the mother. These observations agree with the rate of placental transfer of nicotine. (4) When nicotine was added on the fetal side, part of it was metabolized to cotinine. However, the maximal concentration of cotinine was twice higher on fetal than on maternal side. These observations suggest that accumulation of cotinine on fetal side may activate prostaglandin formation and trigger spontaneous abortions in pregnant smokers.

Expression of xenobiotic-metabolizing cytochrome P450 forms in human full-term placenta

The expression of individual xenobiotic-metabolizing cytochrome P450 (CYP) genes in human placenta was studied at the mRNA level by reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). mRNAs of CYP1A1, CYP2E1, CYP2F1, CYP3A3/4, CYP3A5, and CYP4B1 were detected by RT-PCR, and CYP1A2, CYP2A6/7, CYP2B6/7, CYp2C8-19, CYP2D6, and CYp3A7 were not detected. Several enzyme activity assays and immunoblasts were used to further characterize expression of forms producing detectable mRNA transcripts. The catalytic activities of 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase (ECOD), 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (EROD) and aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) were substantially increased in response to maternal cigarette smoking, and paralleled the amount of CYP1A1 mRNA and protein. Aromatase activities were slightly lower in placentas exposed to cigarette smoke compared with nonexposed placentas. These data show that several xenobiotic-metabolizing CYP genes are expressed in human placenta at a low level. The significant of such low-level expression is unknown, but it may have local physiological or toxic consequences.

Bioactivation of benzo(a)pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol catalyzed by lipoxygenase purified from human term placenta and conceptal tissues

Bioactivation of 14C-benzo(a)pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol catalyzed by lipoxygenase purified from human term placenta of nonsmoking women and intrauterine conceptal tissues (at 4 weeks of gestation) was investigated. Incubation of 14C-benzo(a)pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol with 3 mM linoleic acid in the presence of lipoxygenase purified from either human term placenta or intrauterine conceptal tissues resulted in co-oxidation generating several soluble and protein-bound metabolites of benzo(a)pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol. The co-oxidation was inhibited significantly by the specific lipoxygenase inhibitor, nordihydroguaiaretic acid. Substitution for the active enzyme in the reaction mixture with heat denatured enzyme resulted in almost complete abolition of benzo(a)pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol co-oxidation. These results suggest that lipoxygenase in the placentas and intrauterine conceptal tissues is capable of metabolizing benzo(a)pyrene-7,8-dihydrodiol to several reactive metabolites and may represent one of the major xenobiotic metabolizing pathways of bioactivating chemicals in the intrauterine compartment.

The expression and environmental regulation of P450 enzymes in human placenta

The human placenta oxidizes several xenobiotics, although the spectrum of substrates and metabolic activities when compared with the liver appears somewhat restricted. Maternal cigarette smoking or PCB exposure increases the expression of CYP1A1. This induced activity is able to catalyze the activation of benzo(a)pyrene (B(a)P) into DNA-bound products, both in vitro and in vivo. Studies on adult human liver bolster the concept that CYP1A1 and -1A2 are differentially expressed in hepatic and extrahepatic tissues. Studies with cDNA probe or enzyme specific antibodies and substrates for CYP2A, -2B, -2C, -2D, and -2E gene products have yielded negative results. There are only minimal activities that can be found in substantial quantities in placentas without maternal smoking; one example is 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase (ECOD). Aromatase and cholesterol side-chain cleaving P450 mRNAs, proteins, and activities are measurable in human placentas and do not seem to be affected by maternal cigarette smoking.

Human trophoblast cultures: models for implantation and peri-implantation toxicology

Implantation is the process that leads from blastocyst attachment to its embedding in the uterine wall. It is widely believed that failure of implantation is a common cause of pregnancy loss. Toxic agents can interfere directly with the process of implantation and therefore may account for unexplained implantation failures. Our knowledge of human implantation remains limited, mainly due to the lack of adequate experimental models. Studies of mechanisms underlying implantation in humans are by nature and for ethical reasons restricted to in vitro models. The aim of this review is to provide a critical evaluation of various in vitro models of implantation in humans, as well as essential background knowledge required for application of these models to the assessment of peri-implantation toxicity. Particular attention has been devoted to cell-cell and cell-matrix interactions as possible endpoints in the screening of toxic agents.

Uptake and elution of chlormethiazole, meperidine, and minaxolone in the hindquarters of sheep: implications for clearance calculations

Mass balance principles were used to describe the uptake and elution of chlormethiazole, meperidine, and minaxolone in the hindquarters of sheep. Sheep received a right atrial infusion of either chlormethiazole (3.71 mg/min) or meperidine (2.70 mg/min) for 180 min, or minaxolone (0.37 mg/min) for 120 min. Paired arterial and inferior vena cava (draining the hindquarters) blood samples were taken during and after the infusion. The mean and SD (n = 4) of the time-averaged extraction ratios across the hindquarters (determined from the relevant arterio-venous area under blood concentration--time curves) were 0.12 (0.10), 0.36 (0.13), and 0.27 (0.05) for chlormethiazole, meperidine, and minaxolone, respectively. The rank order of the rate of uptake of the drugs into the hindquarters was the same as the rank order of their lipophilicity, and uptake still continued when both the arterial and inferior vena cava drug concentrations were essentially constant. For chlormethiazole, meperidine, and minaxolone, 48% (44), 4% (6), and 35% (17), respectively, of the drug taken into the hindquarters eluted from the hindquarters after the infusion. Drug uptake and retention in extravisceral tissues, represented here by the hindquarters, can result in the mean total body drug clearance being overestimated when determined by traditional systemic pharmacokinetic methods.

The in vitro uptake and metabolism of lignocaine, procainamide and pethidine by tissues of the hindquarters of sheep

1. In vitro studies using tissue slices or tissue homogenates of liver, skeletal muscle, fat skin and blood were conducted to determine whether the uptake of procainamide, lignocaine and pethidine into the hindquarters of sheep was due to distribution or metabolism. Both homogenates and slice preparations of liver showed significant metabolism or uptake, confirming the viability of the preparations. 2. None of the drugs was metabolized in blood and there was minimal uptake of the drugs into the skin. 3. There was metabolism of pethidine in skeletal muscle and substantial uptake of pethidine into fat, indicating that the rapid rate of uptake and prolonged elution of pethidine in the hindquarters was due to both distribution and metabolism. 4. No metabolism of lignocaine in muscle was found, but there was substantial uptake into fat, indicating that the rapid rate of uptake and prolonged elution of lignocaine in the hindquarters was due to its distribution into fat. 5. There was negligible uptake of procainamide into either muscle or fat, presumably due to its relatively low lipophilicity.

Teratogenicity of 3,3-dimethyl-1-phenyltriazene: distribution in rats and rat embryos

3,3-Dimethyl-1-phenyltriazene (DMPT) is a methylating agent which is carcinogenic, teratogenic and mutagenic which, in the rat, provides a reproducible animal model with which to study the basis of chemically-induced micrognathism. The basis of teratogenic organotropism of DMPT and other methylating teratogens is unknown. The present study was undertaken to determine if limited chemical distribution within the embryo was responsible for the organotropism of DMPT. Whole-embryo autoradiographs and liquid scintillation analysis indicated that although DMPT may have some limitations of chemical distribution within the embryo, these limitations are not sufficient to explain its teratogenic organotropism.

Partial purification and characterization of a peroxidase activity from human placenta

Peroxidases can metabolize a variety of xenobiotics to reactive intermediates capable of binding to protein or DNA. The potential role of these enzymes in fetotoxicity has not been explored. In this study, the presence of peroxidase activity was observed in human term and pre-term placenta. Human term placental peroxidase activity (HTPP) was partially purified by concanavalin A affinity chromatography from CaCl2 extracts of the particulate fraction. HTPP appears to be a membrane-bound glycoprotein. Arachidonic acid-dependent oxidation of guaiacol was not observed, suggesting that the peroxidase activity was not due to prostaglandin synthase. Moreover, HTPP preparations were devoid of catalase and spectrally dissimilar from human haemoglobin, cytochrome P-450, eosinophil peroxidase and myloperoxidase, suggesting an endogenous origin. An Mr of approx. 119,000 was determined for HTPP by gel filtration. Cathodic slab-PAGE of cetyltrialkylammonium bromide-solubilized HTPP yielded two peroxidase-staining bands.

Immunochemical and molecular biological studies on human placental cigarette smoke-inducible cytochrome P-450-dependent monooxygenase activities

The induction of specific forms of cytochrome P-450 and P-450-associated xenobiotic-metabolizing monooxygenase activities by maternal cigarette smoking was characterized in human placenta employing polyclonal and monoclonal antibodies and recombinant DNA probes. The anti-BNF-B2 (prepared against rat liver P-450 induced by beta-naphthoflavone) inhibited about 60 per cent of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH) and 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase activities (ERDE) in placental tissues from smoking mothers, whereas the anti-PB-B2 (to phenobarbital-induced rat liver P-450) was without significant inhibitory effect. Inhibition of 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase (ECDE) by the anti-BNF-B2 was dependent on maternal smoking: the enzyme from non-smokers was not significantly inhibited, whereas the enzyme from smokers was variably inhibited by 15-60 per cent. The monoclonal antibodies towards the major 3-methylcholanthrene-inducible and phenobarbital-inducible rat liver P-450s (Mab 1-7-1 and 2-66-3, respectively) behaved similarly, except the inhibition was somewhat stronger if present. Antibody raised against rat liver NADPH-cytochrome P-450 oxido-reductase did not inhibit any activity studied. In immunoblotting experiments, the anti-reductase recognized the protein in human placental microsomes. However, neither anti-BNF-B2, anti-PB-B2 or Mab 1-7-1 or Mab 2-66-3 detected any proteins in human placental microsomes, regardless of smoking status. Northern blot hybridization analysis of placental RNA samples showed that only P-450IA1 mRNA existed in the placentas of smoking mothers with detectable ERDE activity. Despite the discrepancy between protein blotting and immunoinhibition data all other findings support the conclusion that maternal cigarette smoking induces the expression of the CYPIA1 gene (and not CYPIA2), resulting in an increased synthesis of P-450IA1 protein and increased AHH, ERDE and ECDE activities in human placenta.

Maternal and fetal levels of propofol at caesarean section

Twenty women were given a bolus induction of propofol 2.0 mg.kg-1 for elective caesarean section. Induction to delivery times ranged from five to fourteen minutes. At delivery the maternal venous (MV) concentrations of propofol ranged from 0.53 to 1.48 micrograms.ml-1 umbilical vein (UV) 0.39 to 1.4 micrograms.ml-1 and umbilical artery (UA) 0.34 to 0.68 micrograms.ml-1 MV propofol concentrations were always higher than corresponding UV concentrations. The mean (95% confidence interval) UV/MV ratio was 0.65 (0.56-0.74) and the mean UA/UV ratio was 1.07 (0.99-1.15). Neither ratio was shown to be correlated with induction to delivery time. Distribution of propofol is rapid across the placenta and in the fetus. Apgar scores were higher with shorter incision to delivery times but were not correlated to umbilical levels of propofol.

Substrate specificities and functions of the P450 cytochromes

Currently, the major recognized biochemical functions of members of the large superfamily of P450 hemoproteins (referred to commonly as the cytochromes P450) include catalyses of the monooxygenations of a wide variety of endogenous and exogenous lipophilic chemicals. Substrates that have attracted the greatest attention thus far are steroids, fatty acids, eicosanoids, retinoids, other endogenous lipids, therapeutic agents, pesticides/herbicides, chemical carcinogens, industrial chemicals and other environmental contaminants and toxic xenobiotic organics of low molecular weight. Commonly, monooxygenation of such substrates results in the generation of metabolites capable of producing biological effects that are profoundly different (qualitatively as well as quantitatively) from those elicitable by the parent chemical per se. P45OXIX-dependent conversion of testosterone to estradiol-17 beta provides a dramatic example. Thus, these hemoproteins serve as extremely important but, as yet, largely unpredictable regulators of the biological effects producible by endobiotics as well as by xenobiotics. Current focus is on the identification and acquisition of sequence information on hereto unidentified and/or uncharacterized P450 isoforms and ascertainment of the specific functions of specific, individual isoforms. The regulation of quantities and activities of such isoforms in specific species/tissues, understandably, is also of great current interest. This interest has been further intensified by recent results indicating that substrate specificity associated with one P450 may not be the same as the corresponding isoform derived from a different animal species. Recent technological advances promise to greatly hasten the acquisition of knowledge concerning the functions of these important hemoproteins.

Xenobiotic and steroid-metabolizing monooxygenases catalysed by cytochrome P450 and glutathione S-transferase conjugations in the human placenta and their relationships to maternal cigarette smoking

Placentae from both smoking and non-smoking mothers were studied with respect to P450-dependent xenobiotic and steroid-metabolizing reactions, GSHt activity with different substrates and umbilical blood cotinine levels. Catalytic activities were determined in both freshly prepared homogenate subfractions and subfractions prepared after freezing the tissue sample. The results showed three correlation clusters: (i) AHH and ECDE (P less than 0.001), (ii) ECDE and ERDE (P less than 0.05), and (iii) Arom and CSCC reactions correlated with each other both in the mitochondria and microsomes. Among xenobiotic and steroid metabolizing activities, only CSCC and AHH showed a significant negative correlation. Our results agree with the earlier studies (Gottlieb and Manchester, 1986) reporting that xenobiotic metabolising MO and GSHt reactions did not show any statistically significant correlations, reflecting the fact that maternal cigarette smoking does not affect GSHt activities. However, in placentae from smoking mothers a statistically significant (P less than 0.01) positive correlation between GSHt and Arom activity was found. No plausible biological explanation is available for this finding. Among xenobiotic-metabolizing activities only ERDE correlated with plasma cotinine levels, suggesting that it is most closely related to the extent of maternal cigarette smoking. The present findings also suggest that cigarette smoke induced ERDE activity is a distinct one compared with the other xenobiotic-metabolizing P450s. Negative correlations between xenobiotic-metabolizing MO activities and CSCC lend some support to an earlier suggestion (Juchau et al, 1972) that cigarette smoking affects endogenous steroid-metabolizing CSCC reaction catalyzed by P450. Whether this finding is a true biological phenomenon and what is the mechanism behind it remain to be elucidated.

Comparison of the formation of benzo[a]pyrene diolepoxide-DNA adducts in vitro by rat and human microsomes: evidence for the involvement of P-450IA1 and P-450IA2

The involvement of cytochrome P-450 isozymes in the activation of benzo[a]pyrene (BP) by human placental and liver microsomes was studied in vitro using monoclonal antibodies (Mab) toward the major 3-methylcholanthrene (MC)-inducible and phenobarbital-inductible rat liver P-450 isozymes (Mab 1-7-1 and Mab 2-66-3, respectively). Microsomes from human placenta and liver and rat liver were incubated with BP and DNA, and BP-diolepoxide-DNA (BPDE-DNA) adducts were measured by synchronous fluorescence spectrophotometry (SFS). The only BP metabolite giving the same fluorescence peak as chemically modified BPDE-DNA was BP-7,8-dihydrodiol. Five (smokers) out of 29 human placentas (smokers and nonsmokers), and five out of nine human livers were able to metabolically activate BP to BPDE-DNA adducts in this system. The Mab 1-7-1 totally inhibited the formation of BPDE-DNA adducts in placental microsomal incubations. Inhibition using rat or human liver microsomes was 50-60% and about 90%, respectively. The Mab 2-66-3 had no effect in any of the microsome types. Adduct formation was inhibited more strongly and at lower concentrations of Mab 1-7-1 compared with the inhibition of AHH activity. This study is a clear indication of the major role of P-450IA1 (P-450c) in human placenta and probably P-450IA2 (P-450d) in human liver in BP activation, while other isozymes also take part in the activation in rat liver. Furthermore, this clearly indicates that AHH activity and BP activation are not necessarily associated.

Disposition of phenytoin and phenobarbitone in the isolated perfused human placenta

1. The disposition of the anti-epileptic agents phenytoin (PHT) and phenobarbitone (PB) was investigated in lobules of term human placentae perfused using separate maternal and fetal circulations for 6 h periods. 2. No evidence for metabolism of PHT or PB to their p-hydroxylated or other derivatives was found either in perfused lobules or by incubation with placental microsomes. 3. Both PHT and PB were readily transferred across the placenta after administration to either the maternal or fetal perfusates. 4. PHT, unlike PB, showed considerable accumulation in placental tissue.

Markers of physical integrity and metabolic viability of the perfused human placental lobule

1. Peripheral lobules of term placentae obtained from healthy females at Caesarian section were perfused using separate maternal and fetal circulations for 6 h periods under either oxygenated or anoxic conditions. 2. Markers of physical integrity during setting-up and initial perfusion were establishment of dual perfusion within 25 min of placental delivery, pressure in the fetal capillary network less than 40 mmHg, leakage of perfusate from fetal to maternal compartments less than or equal to 2 ml/h, and overlap of maternal with fetal perfusion as indicated visually by appropriate blanching and verified by a fetal artery to vein oxygen gradient of greater than or equal to 90 mmHg. 3. Post-perfusion markers of metabolic viability were most reliably indicated by glucose consumption (oxygenated 7.8 +/- 1.5, anoxic 17.7 +/- 1.2 mmol/kg per h), lactate production (oxygenated 8.5 +/- 1.4, anoxic 33.9 +/- 2.5 mmol/kg per h) and human placental lactogen production (oxygenated 41.2 +/- 9.8, anoxic 12.2 +/- 3.4 mg/kg per h).

Inhibition of human hepatic and placental xenobiotic monooxygenases by imidazole antimycotics

Three imidazole antimycotic drugs, ketoconazole, clotrimazole and miconazole, were studied to characterize the inhibition of aryl hydrocarbon hydroxylase (AHH), 7-ethoxycoumarin O-deethylase (ECDE) and 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase (ERDE) activities in human liver and placenta in vitro in comparison with liver enzymes from control, phenobarbital (PB) and 3-methylcholanthrene (MC) pretreated rats. All three compounds inhibited rat liver enzymes, although MC pretreatment seemed to lead to a resistance of inhibition relative to PB-treated and control animals. There were large differences in the extent of inhibition of human hepatic and placental activities. Furthermore, while the type of inhibition of the hepatic ERDE was competitive or mixed, that of the placental enzyme cannot be described in ordinary terms of inhibition kinetics. Ketoconazole and clotrimazole were relatively potent inhibitors of maternal cigarette smoking-induced placental ECDE activities (IC50 values from 0.5 microM to 5 microM), whereas much less inhibition of the placental AHH activity was obtained with ketoconazole and miconazole (IC50 values from 50 microM to 500 microM). In most cases, hepatic enzymes were less sensitive to antimycotics than placental activities. This was in contrast with results from rat enzyme studies, in which MC pretreatment seemed to decrease the inhibitory response.

Foetoplacental drug clearance in the rabbit: studies with trimazosin, acebutolol and tolmesoxide

1. An animal model suitable for studying placental extraction of large numbers of drugs without the need for major surgical facilities, has been developed in the anaesthetized New Zealand white rabbit with sampling of both arterial and venous blood of the foetoplacental unit. 2. Three drugs with different routes of metabolism were studied: trimazosin, tolmesoxide and acebutolol. There was no extraction across the foetoplacental unit. 3. The clearance of acebutolol differed significantly in rabbits from different suppliers. 4. These results do not suggest a role for the placenta in drug metabolism. They do, however, suggest a previously undescribed genetic determinant of acebutolol metabolism.

The transfer and metabolism of 7-ethoxycoumarin and androstenedione during the in vitro perfusion of the human placental lobule

1. The in vitro metabolism of 7-ethoxycoumarin in the perfused placental lobule has been investigated and compared with that of androstenedione. 2. Perfusion studies showed that the placental lobule was capable of sustaining the metabolism of 7-ethoxycoumarin to 7-hydroxycoumarin for at least one hour but at a considerably lower rate than that for the conversion of androstenedione to oestrone under the same conditions. 3. Following perfusion with androstendione disproportionately large amounts of oestrone were found in the maternal outflow and ostradiol in the foetal outflow. 4. Appreciably more testosterone was formed when the foetal side of the lobule was perfused with androstenedione than when the maternal side was perfused. 5. The data indicate that the human placenta has only a limited capacity for the metabolism of xenobiotics.

International Commission for Protection against Environmental Mutagens and Carcinogens. ICPEMC working paper No. 5. Genotoxicity tests as predictors of carcinogens: an analysis

Differences between the results of numerical validation studies comparing in vitro and in vivo genotoxicity tests with the rodent cancer bioassay are leading to the perception that short-term tests predict carcinogenicity only with uncertainty. Consideration of factors such as the pharmacokinetic distribution of chemicals, the systems available for metabolic activation and detoxification, the ability of the active metabolite to move from the site of production to the target DNA, and the potential for expression of the induced lesions, strongly suggests that the disparate sensitivity of the different test systems is a major reason why numerical validation is not more successful. Furthermore, genotoxicity tests should be expected to detect only a subset of carcinogens, namely genotoxic carcinogens, rather than those carcinogens that appear to act by non-genetic mechanisms. Instead of relying primarily on short-term in vitro genotoxicity tests to predict carcinogenic activity, these tests should be used in a manner that emphasizes the accurate determination of mutagenicity or clastogenicity. It must then be determined whether the mutagenic activity is further expressed as carcinogenicity in the appropriate studies using test animals. The prospects for quantitative extrapolation of in vitro or in vivo genotoxicity test results to carcinogenicity requires a much more precise understanding of the critical molecular events in both processes.

7-Ethoxycoumarin and 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase in human foetal and adult liver: studies with monoclonal antibodies

The 7-ethoxycoumarin and 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase activities were investigated in the microsomal fractions from 5 human adult and 3 foetal livers and 5 human foetal adrenals. The enzyme activity expressed as pmol/min. per mg microsomal protein was higher with 7-ethoxyresorufin as substrate in all investigated specimens with average values (+/- S.E.M.) of 74 +/- 27, 13 +/- 3 and 12 +/- 1 in adult and foetal livers and foetal adrenals, respectively. Monoclonal antibodies raised against 3-methylchloranthrene or phenobarbital induced rat liver cytochrome P-450 were investigated with respect to their inhibiting effects on the rate of O-deethylation of both substrates in human adult liver. Only the monoclonal antibody against the 3-methylcholanthrene induced cytochrome P-450 inhibited the O-deethylation of 7-ethoxyresorufin to 64 to 79 percent of control values. The other antibody had no effect on this or the other O-deethylase activity. Thus, the 7-ethoxyresorufin O-deethylase is partly catalyzed in human adult liver by a cytochrome with an epitope that is recognized by the monoclonal antibody against 3-methylcholanthrene induced rat liver cytochrome P-450. With foetal liver the low activity of the enzyme became unmeasurable in the presence of this antibody.