A Simplified Method for the Estimation of Lecithin in Amniotic Fluid

Abstract

A simplified method for the determination of lecithin in amniotic fluid by thin-layer chromatography is described. The results are similar to those found in previous reports and are suitable for the clinical prediction offoetallung maturity. Factors which may influence the interpretation of the results are discussed.

Effect of Labour on the Lecithin/Sphingomyelin Ratio in Serial Samples of Amniotic Fluid

“…The estimation was performed using a combination of the methods developed by Hodge (1973) and Vaskovsky et a1 (1975) together with our modifications. Lecithin and sphingomyelin were separated by thin-layer chromatography and displayed on the silica using dichlorofluorescein under ultraviolet light.…”

“…Lecithin and sphingomyelin were separated by thin-layer chromatography and displayed on the silica using dichlorofluorescein under ultraviolet light. The 'spots' were scraped off the silica plate and the phospholipids digested with ION sulphuric acid and hydrogen peroxide as described by Hodge (1973). The second digestion period was extended to 45 minutes.…”

Proceedings of the British Pharmacological Society

“…Transmitter release from terminal sympathetic nerves evoked by depolarizing stimuli can be modified by a variety of compounds which activate presynaptic receptors (Starke, 1977 Tyrode solution containing atropine (0.5 gg/ml), at 37°C. Right atrial and ventricular tensions and cardiac rate were recorded as previously described (Fozard & Muscholl, 1971 (Fozard & Mwaluko, 1976 Clonidine induces sedation in animals and man, and this effect, like its antihypertensive action, is thought to be mediated via a-adrenoceptors in the central nervous system (Delbarre & Schmitt, 1971;1973). In the periphery there are two groups of a-adrenoceptors; those located postsynaptically on smooth muscle and those located presynaptically on autonomic postganglionic nerve terminals.…”

“…The phosphatidylcholine content of the lung washes was determined by a slight modification of the methods of Chen, Toribara & Warner (1956) and Hodge (1973). Oxotremorine (0.2 mg/kg) was injected i.p.…”