Parahuleva et al. analyzed whether pregnancy or the use of oral contraceptives (OCs) influences circulating FSAP levels. FSAP levels and activity was measured in plasma samples obtained at different gestation stages from healthy pregnant women, from non-pregnant, pre-menopausal women who currently use OCs, and who did not use OCs.

Plasma FSAP antigen and activity level was significantly higher in late pregnancy than in non-pregnant women. FSAP levels remained elevated after delivery. Plasma FSAP levels in women using OCs was also significantly elevated compared to the control group. Ex vivo experiments demonstrated enhanced FSAP expression in monocytes isolated from women using OCs. In vitro experiments showed that FSAP mRNA levels were strongly induced by estradiol in monocytes but not in hepatocytes.

The authors conclude that hormonal status critically influences the expression of FSAP in pregnancy and in women using OCs. Hormonal influences could be observed in monocytes in vivo and ex-vivo but not in hepatocytes indicating cell-specific regulation.

Title:
Factor Seven Activating Protease (FSAP) levels during normal pregnancy and in women using oral contraceptives

Authors and Source:
Parahuleva MS et al. Thromb Res. 2010 Apr 8. [Epub ahead of print]