Serum protein concentrations in pregnancy: I. Concentrations in maternal serum

Abstract

Employing the technique of single radial immunodiffusion the serum concentrations of eight proteins were measured in maternal serum during the course of pregnancy, at parturition, and post partum. Gestation is associated with a decrease in albumin concentration, no significant variation in concentrations of the three major classes of immunoglobulins and of α2-macroglobulin, and with an increase in the concentration of transferrin, ceruloplasmin, and α1-antitrypsin. Various physiologic factors possibly operative in effecting these alterations are discussed.