273 Mannose Binding Lectin in Mothers and Infants: The Mimi-Study

Abstract

Introduction: Functional Mannose Binding Lectin (f-MBL) may play an important role in the immune system of the neonate. No studies have been done in mothers and their infants at delivery involving f-MBL. Therefore, it is unknown if f-MBL in umbilical cord blood (UCB) is related to maternal f-MBL.Aims of study: To determine the relation between f-MBL in mother and child at birth and to compare arterial and venous UCB f-MBL levels.Materials and methods: The levels of f-MBL in arterial UCB of term infants delivered by elective Caesarean Section and in venous blood of the mothers sampled just before the procedure, were measured with a one-step haemolytic assay. In a subgroup of infants, both arterial and venous UCB was obtained. Statistical analysis was done by Wilcoxon signed rank test, Spearmans Rho test and paired T-test.Results: 48 Paired mother-infant samples, including two bi-amniotic, bi-chorial twins, were obtained. The median f-MBL level (range) was higher in mothers than in arterial UCB: 1,016 (0,121- 4,253) microgr/ml and 0,701 (0,045–2,359) microgr/ml respectively (p=0,002). There is a significant correlation (R2 =0,16, p=0,0007) between maternal and UCB f-MBL levels. In 3 mothers with f-MBL deficiency, normal f-MBL levels in UCB were found. One pair of twins had different f-MBL levels (2,031 and 1,096 microgr/ml respectively). In 14 infants, f-MBL was measured both in arterial and venous UCB. Arterial levels are slightly lower than venous levels, but the difference is not significant (p=0,2).Conclusions: The f-MBL level in UCB of term infants is significantly lower than the f-MBL level of their mothers. There is a weak correlation between maternal and UCB f-MBL levels. There is no significant difference between arterial and venous UCB f-MBL. UCB f-MBL seems, at least partly, derived from the feto-placental unit.