Ontogenetic localization and distribution of S-100β protein in human placental tissues

• Published in: Obstetrics and gynecology (New York. 1953) Vol. 99; no. 6; pp. 1093 - 1099
• Main Authors: Marinoni, Emanuela, Di Iorio, Romolo, Gazzolo, Diego, Lucchini, Claudia, Michetti, Fabrizio, Corvino, Valentina, Cosmi, Ermelando V
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York, NY Elsevier Inc 01-06-2002; Elsevier Science
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Embryology: invertebrates and vertebrates. Teratology; Fetal membranes; Fundamental and applied biological sciences. Psychology; General aspects. Development. Fetal membranes; Human; Immunohistochemistry; Pathology; Placenta; S 100 Protein; Blood vessel; Evolution; Fetus; Umbilical cord; Localization; Fetoplacental membrane; Gestational age
• ISSN: 0029-7844; 1873-233X
• DOI: 10.1016/S0029-7844(02)01996-8

OBJECTIVE:
To investigate whether S-100β, a brain-specific protein found in amniotic fluid and fetal circulation, is present in fetoplacental tissues throughout gestation.
METHODS:
S-100β protein localization and concentration were assessed in placentae, fetal membranes, and cord vessels. Tissues were obtained from 40 pregnant women at different gestational ages: first trimester (
n = 10), second trimester (
n = 10), early third trimester (
n = 10), and late third trimester (
n = 10).
RESULTS:
In the placenta, S-100β was localized in villous and intermediate trophoblast cells. The intensity of immunostaining and protein concentration increased with advancing gestation. S-100β protein was also present in amnion, trophoblast, and decidual cells of fetal membranes, and in endothelial cells of umbilical vessels at all gestational ages.
CONCLUSION:
This study demonstrated that fetoplacental tissues contain S-100β protein, suggesting that these tissues may, at least in part, be responsible for the high level found in the fetal circulation. Although the significance of placental S-100β is unknown, this origin should be taken into account when this protein is used as a marker of brain injury in the fetus or infant at birth.