Abstract
The primary oxytocinase activity of pregnancy plasma is apparently due to a cystine aminopeptidase. The latter activity may be measured by a chemical procedure which utilizes the synthetic substrate cystine-di-β-naphthylamide.The results of 110 determinations during pregnancy indicate a progressive rise of this aminopeptidase activity in plasma, paralleling the oxytocinase curves obtained by biologic assay methods. Contrary to some reports, there is no decline of activity during early or late labor, parturition, or the early puerperium. The onset of spontaneous labor in women can hardly be attributed to a diminished ability of the plasma to inactivate endogenous oxytocin.
Published Version
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call