High-resolution 1H NMR spectroscopy of amniotic fluids from spina bifida fetuses and controls.

Objective: To quantify proton containing metabolites by in vitro 1H NMR spectroscopy of amniotic fluids from fetuses with spina bifida and controls.

Study Design: Fourteen amniotic fluids from spina bifida fetuses and 18 controls were obtained. Concentrations of carbohydrates, organic acids and amino acids were determined. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to evaluate the data.

Results: At 15 and 39 weeks amenorrhea, the estimated median amniotic fluid concentrations of succinic acid and glutamine were significantly higher in the spina bifida group compared to controls, 37 and 64%, respectively. Whereas creatine and creatinine were significantly lower, 27 and 36%, respectively. Amenorrhea influenced the concentrations of most compounds with the exception of lactic acid.

Conclusion: 1H NMR spectroscopy shows significantly higher succinic acid and glutamine concentrations in amniotic fluids derived from spina bifida fetuses compared with controls. A derangement in amino acid metabolism is suggested.