The content of glycosaminoglycans (mucopolysaccharides) in mouse fetus and placenta

Abstract

A microanalysis was carried out of the glycosaminoglycans (mucopolysaccharides) of mouse fetus and placenta in the course of the second half of pregnancy. The content of total glycosaminoglycans, measured as uronic acid after a thorough purification, and seven individual glycosaminoglycans fractions were determined. Whole bodies of mouse fetuses were analyzed from the 10th to the 19th day of pregnancy. At the youngest stage a glycosaminoglycans pattern was noted similar to tissue culture fibroblasts. A steep rise was observed from the 13th day which was caused predominantly by an increase in hyaluronate and chondroitin 4-sulfate. Mouse placentas were analyzed from the 12th to the 19th day of pregnancy. A rise glycosaminoglycans content was observed until a peak was reached on the 14th and 15th days which was followed by a sharp decline. The high values of the peak were represented by glycosaminoglycans of low molecular weight, or glycoproteins, and by hyaluronate. The presence of glycosaminoglycans and glycoproteins supports the hypothesis raised on the placental function in immunological mechanisms.