Immunoneutralization of adrenocorticotropic and parturition in the fetal baboon

Immunoneutralization of adrenocorticotropin hormone (ACTH) was used to study the role of ACTH in primate adrenal steroidogenesis and gestation length. ACTH is the primary hormone involved in the production of cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), a precursor for estrogen. The production of estrogen is needed for normal parturition to occur in primates. Fetal baboons were actively and passively immunized against ACTH. Cortisol and DHEA (S) levels were analyzed, along with gestation length. A change in cortisol or DHEAS synthesis did not occur after ACTH immunization. In addition, the gestation length was not prolonged in baboons immunized against ACTH. The present study did not provide a definitive role of ACTH in primate parturition, specifically its role in the timing of gestation. However, it did provide evidence that normal gestation lengths and parturition can occur even with the sequestration of ACTH.