Male sex-linked protein in human placental villi.

ABSTRACT

Due to the difference in genetic components between X and Y chromosomes, we believe that tissues of male and female individuals should contain different sex-linked protein. This study is aimed to determine whether there is any sex-linked protein in the placenta belonging to human male and female fetuses. Placentas from eleven male and eleven female fetuses were studied. Proteins from the placenta were extracted and fractionated by means of column chromatography. The protein fractions obtained from the male and female placental extracts were compared. It was found that there was a protein fraction present in the placenta of male fetuses but absent in those of the females. This protein fraction is called "male sex-linked protein" or "male protein". It is believed that this male protein is genetically determined and should also be found in every organ, not just only in the placenta.