Levels of hepatocyte growth factor in maternal serum and amniotic fluid

Hepatocyte growth factor (HGF) may be produced by both the placenta and by the inner layer of the membrane surrounding the fetus, the amnion, and may influence growth of the fetus and the development of the placenta. Researchers analyzed blood samples from 219 women in various stages of pregnancy, umbilical cord blood from 20 patients, and 90 amniotic fluid samples. High HGF levels were found in maternal blood and amniotic fluid but not in umbilical cord blood. HGF was determined to be secreted by the placenta, which then circulated into the mothers' blood but not to the fetus. Amnion was determined to secrete HGF into amniotic fluid, with the highest levels of HGF occurring during the second trimester. HGF in amniotic fluid may influence fetal growth and organ development.