Is routine fetal karyotyping necessary for patients undergoing amniocentesis for elevated maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein?
Routine fetal chromosomal analysis of amniotic fluid amniocytes may not be necessary in patients with a normal level of amniotic fluid AFP. A fetal karyotype is recommended in those patients with an elevated amniotic fluid AFP.
These data support a role of HSP20 phosphorylation in mediating smooth muscle relaxation, possibly via a direct interaction of large aggregates of HSP20 with the contractile elements.