Certain biochemical characteristics of rat amniotic fluid

Abstract

A study was undertaken to estimate several biochemical parameters including proteolytic activity in the rat amniotic fluid, as gestational age can be accurately calculated in this species from the day the vaginal smear is positive for sperm. The results showed detectable proteolytic activity between day 13 and day 20 with a significant increase in the total proteolytic and specific proteolytic activities between day 16 and day 17 of gestation. These changes along with those of protein, creatinine, pH, volume and 5-hydroxytryptamine in the rat amniotic fluid indicate that the period between day 16 and day 18 may be 'critical' in the development of the rat foetus in utero, the term 'critical' meaning that after this period, the chances of survival of the foetus outside the uterus is relatively higher.