Detection of annexin V in human placenta and cultured trophoblast cells

  Objective   To investigate the expression and the distribution of annex in V in human placentae and to find out the possible form which hepatitis B virus takes in the infection of the placental cells.

  Methods   39 full-term placentae of HBsAg sero-positive and 4 full-term placentae of HBsAg sero-negative pregnant women were enro lled.Slices of placental issues and cultured trophoblasts were made for detection of annex in V by immunohistochemical staining.7 placental tissues were selected randomly for the investigation of annex in V.The immunofluorenscence assay and confocal laser scanning microscope were used.

  Results   Annex in V existed in human placental tissues and located in the cytoplasm of trophoblasts, stromal cells and villous capillary endothelial cells.

  Conclusion   Annexin V is plenty in human placenta and annexin V maybe a potential receptor for HBV into the trophoblast and infecting the infant.