Abstract
SummaryBody weight, haematocrit, plasma volume and plasma concentrations of albumin. Transferring and IgG globulin were measured at different times in normal pregnant rats and in early lactation, and also in rats in which the foetuses alone, or foetuses plus placentas, were removed on the fourteenth day of pregnancy. Haematocrit and the plasma protein values all decreased and body weight and plasma volume increased during normal pregnancy. The plasma protein levels rose abruptly after parturition. but the haematocrit and plasma volume values changed more slowly. The changes in haematocrit and plasma volume in rats subjected to foetal removal were similar lo those in control pregnant rats, but these changes were prevented by removal of the foetuses and placentas. By contrast, removal of the foetuses alone prevented the changes in plasma protein concentrations observed in control pregnant rats. It is concluded that the changes in plasma protein concentration which occur during pregnancy in the rat are dependent on the presence of the foetuses, and are probably largely due to the transfer to the foetuses and catabolism by the yolk sac placenta. The changes in plasma volume and haematocrit are independent of the presence of the foetuses.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
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
