Control of adenosine-3',5'-monophosphate level in human amnion by prostaglandin E1 and isoproterenol.

The adenosine-3',5'-monophosphate (cAMP) level in human amnion has been measured in vitro during short-term incubations, with or without prostaglandin E1 (PGE1) or isoproterenol. Concentration-response and kinetic curves were obtained. Isoproterenol and PGE1 stimulated cAMP production by amnion in a time-dependent manner. The stimulating effect of isoproterenol and noradrenalin on cAMP level was abolished by the addition of propranolol. Our study, demonstrating cAMP production by amniotic membranes and its stimulation by PGE1 and beta-agonists, suggests that hormones could modulate the amniotic cell metabolism through the cAMP system.