Maternal serum alpha2-macroglobulin and fetal growth retardation

Article Abstract:

Alpha2-macroglobulin is a glycoprotein associated with certain cells of the immune system (lymphocytes, polymorphonuclear leukocytes, and macrophages). While its function is not known, it has several interesting characteristics, including its abilities to bind to many substances and regulate biological functions, such as the manufacture of blood cells (leukopoiesis, erythropoiesis). The molecule is a carrier for zinc, and changes in levels of alpha2-macroglobulin reflect changes in the levels of zinc in the body. To learn more about the role of zinc in the outcome of pregnancy, alpha2-macroglobulin was measured in 289 pregnant women who were at risk for delivering a low-birth-weight, or growth-retarded, infant. The subjects' blood was analyzed at approximately the 18th and 30th weeks of pregnancy for alpha2-macroglobulin concentrations, and the outcome of pregnancy was noted. Neonates were classified as growth-retarded if their weight was less than the 15th percentile for gestational age, based on Alabama standards (where the study took place). Results showed no change in alpha2-macroglobulin levels during pregnancy. Eighty growth-retarded infants were born. The alpha2-macroglobulin levels of the mothers of these infants were compared with levels of the mothers of a control group of 80 matched infants. Mothers of the growth-retarded neonates had elevated levels of the protein at both points. Alpha2-macroglobulin levels and other factors such as smoking (higher levels among smokers), race (higher levels among whites), and maternal body weight (higher levels in thin women) appeared to be related. No association was found between these levels and the levels of zinc in the blood. While the role of this protein with respect to fetal growth remains to be clarified, measurement of alpha2-macroglobulin during pregnancy may be helpful for predicting fetal growth retardation. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)

Measurement, Fetus, Physiological aspects, Fetal growth retardation, Alpha 2-macroglobulin

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Medical, psychosocial, and behavioral risk factors do not explain the increased risk for low birth weight among black women

Article Abstract:

Black women may have more low birth weight infants than white women even after various risk factors are taken into account. Researchers evaluated risk factors for low birth weight infants, preterm delivery, and growth-restricted infants among 1,491 pregnant women. White women in the group had more risk factors, such as smoking, frequent moves, and lower psychosocial scores, than black women. The infants of white women weighed an average of 200 grams more than infants of black women. Preterm birth among blacks contributes to the higher rate of infant mortality.

Health aspects, Analysis, Risk factors, Birth weight, Low, Low birth weight, Health, Health and race, Ethnic groups, African American women

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