We have attempted to isolate samples of apical and basal-lateral plasma membranes from cultured fetal human RPE. Cells from confluent, dome-forming cultures were disrupted with a Dounce apparatus. Nuclei and melanin granules were sedimented by centrifugation at 2600 g for 10 min. The supernates were layered over gradients of 17.5-65% sorbitol and centrifuged at 122,000 g for 5 hr. Fractions wer...

If as is now thought most genes achieve their effects by directing the synthesis of enzymes, genetic variation will be largely reflected by enzyme diversity. Such enzyme diversity in human populations is illustrated by studies on the recently dis covered genetically determined polymorphisms involving red cell acid phosphatase, phosphoglucomutase, adenylate kinase, and placental alkaline phospha...

BACKGROUND Extracellular matrix proteins are key factors that influence the regenerative capacity of tissues. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of enamel matrix derivative (EMD), TGF-β1, and the combination of both factors (EMD+TGF-β1) on human osteoblastic cell cultures. METHODS Cells were obtained from alveolar bone of three adult patients using enzymatic digest...

A431 human epidermoid carcinoma cells monophenotypically express the placenta! alkaline phosphatase (PLAP)-like enzyme shown by its catalytic and antigenic characteristics, properties which are shared by the Nagao isozyme. More specifically, it is L-leucine sensitive just as is the rare placenta! D-variant of PLAP and the testicular heat-stable enzyme. Collectively, these are all referred to as...

The mammalian fetus is unique in its dependence during gestation on the supply of maternal nutrients through the placenta. Maternal supply and fetal demand for nutrients need to be fine tuned for healthy growth and development of the fetus along its genetic trajectory. An altered balance between supply and demand can lead to deviations from this trajectory with long-term consequences for health...

The intrauterine existence of fetus solely depends on one organ “The Placenta”. Placenta is a vital organ playing central role in pregnancy. It maintains pregnancy and promotes normal fetal development and serves as a major organ for transfer of essential elements between mother and fetus. 1 It has a significant role in health of the fetus because it is the sole source of nutrients for the fetu...