IN VIVO steroid biogenesis and metabolism in the human term placenta 1. IN SITU placental perfusion with isotopic pregnenolone

Three human term placentas have been perfused with labeled pregnenolone. Perfusions were performed at the time of elective repeat cesarean section, prior to the onset of labor. Placentas and venous effluents were separately analyzed. As is true in midtrimester placentas, rapid and extensive conversion to progesterone was effected by the placenta. In addition to progesterone, 6 [beta]-hydroxyprogesterone was identified.Peer Reviewedhttp://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/2027.42/33430/1/0000832.pd