Transfer studies of albumin through human Fallopian tubes

The rate and rapidity of albumin transferred through human Fallopian tubes were measured in vitro in certain clinical circumstances. Both “absorption” and “excretion” types of transfer were carried out simultaneously. The rapidity of maximal transfer is greater in the “absorption” than in the “excretion” studies and also greater in the combined oral contraceptive, postpartum, and early and late luteal phase groups than in the early and late follicular phase groups. The possible contribution of the experimental design and the effect of progesterone on the rapidity of transfer is discussed. More albumin is “absorbed” than “excreted”. This excess is greater in the early luteal and late follicular phases and in the contraceptive pill users. The lower excesses found in term pregnancy and immediately post partum are explained on the basis of morphologic and physiologic changes and also by the experimental design. The possible contribution of estrogens in enhancing the amount of albumin “absorbed” is discussed.