Distribution of alpha-fetoprotein in fetal plasma and in amniotic and allantoic fluids of the pig

Abstract

The concentration of AFP in the plasma of fetal pigs was highest in early gestation (Days 15-30) and declined with advancing gestation. This pattern was comparable to those observed in other mammals with similar lengths of gestation. In contrast, allantoic and amniotic fluid AFP concentrations were highest during the middle third of gestation but these concentrations were much lower than those in fetal plasma throughout gestation. The allantois appears to be a significant distribution space for AFP in early gestation.