Epidermal Growth Factor Stimulation of Lecithin Release by Human Amnion

Abstract

Lecithin release from human amnion disks was assayed in basal conditions as well as under epidermal growth factor administration. The tissue responded to the peptide by increasing the phospholipid release. A significant effect was observed only after 30 min of treatment. A possible role of epidermal growth factor-induced amniotic lecithin release in fetal lung maturation as well as in the mechanism of delivery is discussed.