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Hori T, Okae H, Shibata S, Kobayashi N, Kobayashi EH, Oike A, Sekiya A, Arima T, Kaji H. Trophoblast stem cell-based organoid models of the human placental barrier. Nat Commun 2024; 15:962. [PMID: 38332125 PMCID: PMC10853531 DOI: 10.1038/s41467-024-45279-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2022] [Accepted: 01/18/2024] [Indexed: 02/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Human placental villi have essential roles in producing hormones, mediating nutrient and waste exchange, and protecting the fetus from exposure to xenobiotics. Human trophoblast organoids that recapitulate the structure of villi could provide an important in vitro tool to understand placental development and the transplacental passage of xenobiotics. However, such organoids do not currently exist. Here we describe the generation of trophoblast organoids using human trophoblast stem (TS) cells. Following treatment with three kinds of culture medium, TS cells form spherical organoids with a single outer layer of syncytiotrophoblast (ST) cells that display a barrier function. Furthermore, we develop a column-type ST barrier model based on the culture condition of the trophoblast organoids. The bottom membrane of the column is almost entirely covered with syndecan 1-positive ST cells. The barrier integrity and maturation levels of the model are confirmed by measuring transepithelial/transendothelial electrical resistance (TEER) and the amount of human chorionic gonadotropin. Further analysis reveals that the model can be used to derive the apparent permeability coefficients of model compounds. In addition to providing a suite of tools for the study of placental development, our trophoblast models allow the evaluation of compound transfer and toxicity, which will facilitate drug development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Hori
- Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Systems Engineering, Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering (IBB), Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0062, Japan
| | - Hiroaki Okae
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 862-0973, Japan
| | - Shun Shibata
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Norio Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI, 48109, USA
| | - Eri H Kobayashi
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Akira Oike
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 862-0973, Japan
| | - Asato Sekiya
- Department of Trophoblast Research, Institute of Molecular Embryology and Genetics, Kumamoto University, Kumamoto, 862-0973, Japan
| | - Takahiro Arima
- Department of Informative Genetics, Environment and Genome Research Center, Tohoku University Graduate School of Medicine, 2-1 Seiryo-cho, Aoba-ku, Sendai, 980-8575, Japan
| | - Hirokazu Kaji
- Department of Diagnostic and Therapeutic Systems Engineering, Institute of Biomaterials and Bioengineering (IBB), Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), 2-3-10 Kanda-Surugadai, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, 101-0062, Japan.
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2
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Zuri G, Karanasiou A, Lacorte S. Human biomonitoring of microplastics and health implications: A review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2023; 237:116966. [PMID: 37634692 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.116966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2023] [Revised: 08/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microplastics (MPs) are plastic particles (<5 mm) ubiquitous in water, soil, and air, indicating that humans can be exposed to MPs through ingestion of water and food, and inhalation. OBJECTIVE This review provides an overview of the current human biomonitoring data available to evaluate human exposure and health impact of MPs. METHOD We compiled 91 relevant studies on MPs in human matrices and MPs toxicological endpoints to provide evidence on MPs distribution in the different tissues and the implications this can have from a health perspective. RESULTS Human exposure to MPs has been corroborated by the detection of MPs in different human biological samples including blood, urine, stool, lung tissue, breast milk, semen and placenta. Although humans have clearance mechanisms protecting them from potentially harmful substances, health risks associated to MPs exposure include the onset of inflammation, oxidative stress, and DNA damage, potentially leading to cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, as well as cancer, as suggested by in vitro and in vivo studies. CONCLUSION Based on compiled data, MPs have been recurrently identified in different human tissues and fluids, suggesting that humans are exposed to MPs through inhalation and ingestion. Despite differences in MPs concentrations appear in exposed and non-exposed people, accumulation and distribution pathways and potential human health hazards is still at an infant stage. Human biomonitoring data enables the assessment of human exposure to MPs and associated risks, and this information can contribute to draw management actions and guidelines to minimize MP release to the environment, and thus, reduce human uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppina Zuri
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Angeliki Karanasiou
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Sílvia Lacorte
- Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research of the Spanish Research Council (IDAEA-CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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Zhou Z, Luo D, Li M, Lao G, Zhou Z, Dinnyés A, Xu W, Sun Q. A Novel Multicellular Placental Barrier Model to Investigate the Effect of Maternal Aflatoxin B 1 Exposure on Fetal-Side Neural Stem Cells. Toxins (Basel) 2023; 15:toxins15050312. [PMID: 37235346 DOI: 10.3390/toxins15050312] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/03/2023] [Revised: 04/20/2023] [Accepted: 04/21/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Ingestion of food toxins such as aflatoxin B1 (AFB1) during pregnancy may impair fetal neurodevelopment. However, animal model results may not be accurate due to the species' differences, and testing on humans is ethically impermissible. Here, we developed an in vitro human maternal-fetal multicellular model composed of a human hepatic compartment, a bilayer placental barrier, and a human fetal central nervous system compartment using neural stem cells (NSCs) to investigate the effect of AFB1 on fetal-side NSCs. AFB1 passed through the HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cells to mimic the maternal metabolic effects. Importantly, even at the limited concentration (0.0641 ± 0.0046 μM) of AFB1, close to the national safety level standard of China (GB-2761-2011), the mixture of AFB1 crossing the placental barrier induced NSC apoptosis. The level of reactive oxygen species in NSCs was significantly elevated and the cell membrane was damaged, causing the release of intracellular lactate dehydrogenase (p < 0.05). The comet experiment and γ-H2AX immunofluorescence assay showed that AFB1 caused significant DNA damage to NSCs (p < 0.05). This study provided a new model for the toxicological evaluation of the effect of food mycotoxin exposure during pregnancy on fetal neurodevelopment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiwei Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Dongmei Luo
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Mengxue Li
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Guangjie Lao
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Zhiqiang Zhou
- Department of Food Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - András Dinnyés
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
- BioTalentum Ltd., Aulich Lajos Str. 26, 2100 Godollo, Hungary
- Department of Cell Biology and Molecular Medicine, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Wenming Xu
- Key Laboratory of Birth Defects and Related Diseases of Women and Children, Ministry of Education, West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
- Reproductive Endocrinology and Regulation Laboratory West China Second University Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
| | - Qun Sun
- Key Laboratory of Bio-Resources and Eco-Environment Ministry of the Education, College of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610064, China
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Mégier C, Peoc’h K, Puy V, Cordier AG. Iron Metabolism in Normal and Pathological Pregnancies and Fetal Consequences. Metabolites 2022; 12:metabo12020129. [PMID: 35208204 PMCID: PMC8876952 DOI: 10.3390/metabo12020129] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2021] [Revised: 01/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Iron is required for energy production, DNA synthesis, and cell proliferation, mainly as a component of the prosthetic group in hemoproteins and as part of iron-sulfur clusters. Iron is also a critical component of hemoglobin and plays an important role in oxygen delivery. Imbalances in iron metabolism negatively affect these vital functions. As the crucial barrier between the fetus and the mother, the placenta plays a pivotal role in iron metabolism during pregnancy. Iron deficiency affects 1.2 billion individuals worldwide. Pregnant women are at high risk of developing or worsening iron deficiency. On the contrary, in frequent hemoglobin diseases, such as sickle-cell disease and thalassemia, iron overload is observed. Both iron deficiency and iron overload can affect neonatal development. This review aims to provide an update on our current knowledge on iron and heme metabolism in normal and pathological pregnancies. The main molecular actors in human placental iron metabolism are described, focusing on the impact of iron deficiency and hemoglobin diseases on the placenta, together with normal metabolism. Then, we discuss data concerning iron metabolism in frequent pathological pregnancies to complete the picture, focusing on the most frequent diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Charles Mégier
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Service de Gynécologie-Obstétrique, Hôpital Bicêtre, Université Paris Saclay, 94270 Le Kremlin-Bicetre, France;
| | - Katell Peoc’h
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Laboratoire de Biochimie Clinique, HUPNVS, Hôpital Beaujon, Clichy and Université de Paris, UFR de Médecine Xavier Bichat, INSERM U1149, F-75018 Paris, France;
| | - Vincent Puy
- Unité de biologie de la Reproduction CECOS, Hôpital Antoine Béclère, Université Paris Saclay, 92140 Clamart, France;
- Laboratoire de Développement des Gonades, UMRE008 Stabilité Génétique Cellules Souches et Radiations, Université de Paris, Université Paris-Saclay, CEA, F-92265 Fontenay-aux-Roses, France
| | - Anne-Gaël Cordier
- INSERM, 3PHM, UMR-S1139, F-75006 Paris, France
- PremUp Foundation, F-75014 Paris, France
- Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Service de Gynécologie Obstétrique, Hôpital Antoine Béclère, Université Paris-Saclay, 92140 Clamart, France
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +33-145374441; Fax: +33-45374366
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5
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Atallah R, Gindlhuber J, Platzer W, Bärnthaler T, Tatzl E, Toller W, Strutz J, Rittchen S, Luschnig P, Birner-Gruenberger R, Wadsack C, Heinemann A. SUCNR1 Is Expressed in Human Placenta and Mediates Angiogenesis: Significance in Gestational Diabetes. Int J Mol Sci 2021; 22:12048. [PMID: 34769478 PMCID: PMC8585094 DOI: 10.3390/ijms222112048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2021] [Revised: 11/02/2021] [Accepted: 11/04/2021] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Placental hypervascularization has been reported in pregnancy-related pathologies such as gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM). Nevertheless, the underlying causes behind this abnormality are not well understood. In this study, we addressed the expression of SUCNR1 (cognate succinate receptor) in human placental endothelial cells and hypothesized that the succinate-SUCNR1 axis might play a role in the placental hypervascularization reported in GDM. We measured significantly higher succinate levels in placental tissue lysates from women with GDM relative to matched controls. In parallel, SUCNR1 protein expression was upregulated in GDM tissue lysates as well as in isolated diabetic fetoplacental arterial endothelial cells (FpECAds). A positive correlation of SUCNR1 and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) protein levels in tissue lysates indicated a potential link between the succinate-SUCNR1 axis and placental angiogenesis. In our in vitro experiments, succinate prompted hallmarks of angiogenesis in human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) such as proliferation, migration and spheroid sprouting. These results were further validated in fetoplacental arterial endothelial cells (FpECAs), where succinate induced endothelial tube formation. VEGF gene expression was increased in response to succinate in both HUVECs and FpECAs. Yet, knockdown of SUCNR1 in HUVECs led to suppression of VEGF gene expression and abrogated the migratory ability and wound healing in response to succinate. In conclusion, our data underline SUCNR1 as a promising metabolic target in human placenta and as a potential driver of enhanced placental angiogenesis in GDM.
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MESH Headings
- Adult
- Case-Control Studies
- Cells, Cultured
- Diabetes, Gestational/genetics
- Diabetes, Gestational/metabolism
- Diabetes, Gestational/physiopathology
- Endothelium, Vascular/metabolism
- Female
- Human Umbilical Vein Endothelial Cells
- Humans
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/genetics
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/metabolism
- Neovascularization, Pathologic/pathology
- Neovascularization, Physiologic/genetics
- Placenta/blood supply
- Placenta/metabolism
- Pregnancy
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/genetics
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/metabolism
- Receptors, G-Protein-Coupled/physiology
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Affiliation(s)
- Reham Atallah
- Otto-Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology and Inflammation, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.A.); (W.P.); (T.B.); (S.R.); (P.L.)
- National Research Centre, Cairo 12622, Egypt
| | - Juergen Gindlhuber
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.G.); (R.B.-G.)
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Technische Universität Wien, 1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Wolfgang Platzer
- Otto-Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology and Inflammation, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.A.); (W.P.); (T.B.); (S.R.); (P.L.)
| | - Thomas Bärnthaler
- Otto-Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology and Inflammation, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.A.); (W.P.); (T.B.); (S.R.); (P.L.)
| | - Eva Tatzl
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (E.T.); (W.T.)
| | - Wolfgang Toller
- Department of Anaesthesiology and Intensive Care Medicine, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (E.T.); (W.T.)
| | - Jasmin Strutz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (J.S.); (C.W.)
- Institute of Biomedical Science, Carinthia University of Applied Sciences, 9020 Klagenfurt, Austria
| | - Sonja Rittchen
- Otto-Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology and Inflammation, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.A.); (W.P.); (T.B.); (S.R.); (P.L.)
| | - Petra Luschnig
- Otto-Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology and Inflammation, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.A.); (W.P.); (T.B.); (S.R.); (P.L.)
| | - Ruth Birner-Gruenberger
- Diagnostic and Research Institute of Pathology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (J.G.); (R.B.-G.)
- Institute of Chemical Technologies and Analytics, Technische Universität Wien, 1060 Vienna, Austria
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, 8036 Graz, Austria; (J.S.); (C.W.)
| | - Akos Heinemann
- Otto-Loewi Research Center for Vascular Biology, Immunology and Inflammation, Division of Pharmacology, Medical University of Graz, 8010 Graz, Austria; (R.A.); (W.P.); (T.B.); (S.R.); (P.L.)
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6
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Wong MK, Li EW, Adam M, Selvaganapathy PR, Raha S. Establishment of an in vitro placental barrier model cultured under physiologically relevant oxygen levels. Mol Hum Reprod 2021; 26:353-365. [PMID: 32159799 DOI: 10.1093/molehr/gaaa018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2019] [Revised: 02/05/2020] [Indexed: 12/16/2022] Open
Abstract
The human placental barrier facilitates many key functions during pregnancy, most notably the exchange of all substances between the mother and fetus. However, preclinical models of the placental barrier often lacked the multiple cell layers, syncytialization of the trophoblast cells and the low oxygen levels that are present within the body. Therefore, we aimed to design and develop an in vitro model of the placental barrier that would reinstate these factors and enable improved investigations of barrier function. BeWo placental trophoblastic cells and human umbilical vein endothelial cells were co-cultured on contralateral sides of an extracellular matrix-coated transwell insert to establish a multilayered barrier. Epidermal growth factor and forskolin led to significantly increased multi-nucleation of the BeWo cell layer and increased biochemical markers of syncytial fusion, for example syncytin-1 and hCGβ. Our in vitro placental barrier possessed size-specific permeability, with 4000-Da molecules experiencing greater transport and a lower apparent permeability coefficient than 70 000-Da molecules. We further demonstrated that the BeWo layer had greater resistance to smaller molecules compared to the endothelial layer. Chronic, physiologically low oxygen exposure (3-8%) increased the expression of hypoxia-inducible factor 1α and syncytin-1, further increased multi-nucleation of the BeWo cell layer and decreased barrier permeability only against smaller molecules (457 Da/4000 Da). In conclusion, we built a novel in vitro co-culture model of the placental barrier that possessed size-specific permeability and could function under physiologically low oxygen levels. Importantly, this will enable future researchers to better study the maternal-fetal transport of nutrients and drugs during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael K Wong
- Graduate Program of Medical Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Edward W Li
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mohamed Adam
- Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | | | - Sandeep Raha
- Graduate Program of Medical Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Faculty of Health Sciences, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada.,Department of Pediatrics, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada, L8N 3Z5
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7
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Shojaei S, Ali MS, Suresh M, Upreti T, Mogourian V, Helewa M, Labouta HI. Dynamic placenta-on-a-chip model for fetal risk assessment of nanoparticles intended to treat pregnancy-associated diseases. Biochim Biophys Acta Mol Basis Dis 2021; 1867:166131. [PMID: 33766738 DOI: 10.1016/j.bbadis.2021.166131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2020] [Revised: 03/11/2021] [Accepted: 03/12/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Pregnant women often have to take medication either for pregnancy-related diseases or for previously existing medical conditions. Current maternal medications pose fetal risks due to off target accumulation in the fetus. Nanoparticles, engineered particles in the nanometer scale, have been used for targeted drug delivery to the site of action without off-target effects. This has opened new avenues for treatment of pregnancy-associated diseases while minimizing risks on the fetus. It is therefore instrumental to study the potential transfer of nanoparticles from the mother to the fetus. Due to limitations of in vivo and ex vivo models, an in vitro model mimicking the in vivo situation is essential. Placenta-on-a-chip provides a microphysiological recapitulation of the human placenta. Here, we reviewed the fetal risks associated with current therapeutic approaches during pregnancy, analyzed the advantages and limitations of current models used for nanoparticle assessment, and highlighted the current need for using dynamic placenta-on-a-chip models for assessing the safety of novel nanoparticle-based therapies during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahla Shojaei
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Moustafa S Ali
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Madhumita Suresh
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Tushar Upreti
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Victoria Mogourian
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Michael Helewa
- Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada.
| | - Hagar I Labouta
- College of Pharmacy, Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Children's Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Biomedical Engineering, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Canada; Faculty of Pharmacy, Alexandria University, Alexandria, Egypt.
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8
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Zafeiri A, Mitchell RT, Hay DC, Fowler PA. Over-the-counter analgesics during pregnancy: a comprehensive review of global prevalence and offspring safety. Hum Reprod Update 2020; 27:67-95. [PMID: 33118024 DOI: 10.1093/humupd/dmaa042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2020] [Revised: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Analgesia during pregnancy is often necessary. Due to their widespread availability, many mothers opt to use over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics. Those analgesic compounds and their metabolites can readily cross the placenta and reach the developing foetus. Evidence for safety or associations with adverse health outcomes is conflicting, limiting definitive decision-making for healthcare professionals. OBJECTIVE AND RATIONALE This review provides a detailed and objective overview of research in this field. We consider the global prevalence of OTC analgesia during pregnancy, explain the current mechanistic understanding of how analgesic compounds cross the placenta and reach the foetus, and review current research on exposure associations with offspring health outcomes. SEARCH METHODS A comprehensive English language literature search was conducted using PubMed and Scopus databases. Different combinations of key search terms were used including 'over-the-counter/non-prescription analgesics', 'pregnancy', 'self-medication', 'paracetamol', 'acetaminophen', 'diclofenac', 'aspirin', 'ibuprofen', 'in utero exposure', 'placenta drug transport', 'placental transporters', 'placenta drug metabolism' and 'offspring outcomes'. OUTCOMES This article examines the evidence of foetal exposure to OTC analgesia, starting from different routes of exposure to evidence, or the lack thereof, linking maternal consumption to offspring ill health. There is a very high prevalence of maternal consumption of OTC analgesics globally, which is increasing sharply. The choice of analgesia selected by pregnant women differs across populations. Location was also observed to have an effect on prevalence of use, with more developed countries reporting the highest consumption rates. Some of the literature focuses on the association of in utero exposure at different pregnancy trimesters and the development of neurodevelopmental, cardiovascular, respiratory and reproductive defects. This is in contrast to other studies which report no associations. WIDER IMPLICATIONS The high prevalence and the challenges of reporting exact consumption rates make OTC analgesia during pregnancy a pressing reproductive health issue globally. Even though some healthcare policy-making authorities have declared the consumption of some OTC analgesics for most stages of pregnancy to be safe, such decisions are often based on partial review of literature. Our comprehensive review of current evidence highlights that important knowledge gaps still exist. Those areas require further research in order to provide pregnant mothers with clear guidance with regard to OTC analgesic use during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aikaterini Zafeiri
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Rod T Mitchell
- MRC Centre for Reproductive Health, University of Edinburgh, The Queen's Medical Research Institute, Edinburgh, UK
| | - David C Hay
- MRC Centre for Regenerative Medicine, Institute of Regeneration and Repair, University of Edinburgh, Edinburgh, UK
| | - Paul A Fowler
- Institute of Medical Sciences, School of Medicine, Medical Sciences & Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
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9
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Arumugasaamy N, Rock KD, Kuo CY, Bale TL, Fisher JP. Microphysiological systems of the placental barrier. Adv Drug Deliv Rev 2020; 161-162:161-175. [PMID: 32858104 DOI: 10.1016/j.addr.2020.08.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 08/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
Methods to evaluate maternal-fetal transport across the placental barrier have generally involved clinical observations after-the-fact, ex vivo perfused placenta studies, or in vitro Transwell assays. Given the ethical and technical limitations in these approaches, and the drive to understand fetal development through the lens of transport-induced injury, such as with the examples of thalidomide and Zika Virus, efforts to develop novel approaches to study these phenomena have expanded in recent years. Notably, within the past 10 years, placental barrier models have been developed using hydrogel, bioreactor, organ-on-a-chip, and bioprinting approaches. In this review, we discuss the biology of the placental barrier and endeavors to recapitulate this barrier in vitro using these approaches. We also provide analysis of current limitations to drug discovery in this context, and end with a future outlook.
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10
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Connor KL, Kibschull M, Matysiak-Zablocki E, Nguyen TTTN, Matthews SG, Lye SJ, Bloise E. Maternal malnutrition impacts placental morphology and transporter expression: an origin for poor offspring growth. J Nutr Biochem 2020; 78:108329. [PMID: 32004932 DOI: 10.1016/j.jnutbio.2019.108329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 12/18/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
The placenta promotes fetal growth through nutrient transfer and selective barrier systems. An optimally developed placenta can adapt to changes in the pregnancy environment, buffering the fetus from adverse exposures. We hypothesized that the placenta adapts differently to suboptimal maternal diets, evidenced by changes in placental morphology, developmental markers and key transport systems. Mice were fed a control diet (CON) during pregnancy, undernourished (UN) by 30% of control intake from gestational day (GD) 5.5-18.5 or fed 60% high-fat diet (HF) 8 weeks before and during pregnancy. At GD18.5, placental morphometry, development and transport were assessed. Junctional and labyrinthine areas of UN and HF placentae were smaller than CON by >10%. Fetal blood space area and fetal blood space:fetal weight ratios were reduced in HF vs. CON and UN. Trophoblast giant cell marker Ctsq mRNA expression was lower in UN vs. HF, and expression of glycogen cell markers Cx31.1 and Pcdh12 was lower in HF vs. UN. Efflux transporter Abcb1a mRNA expression was lower in HF vs. UN, and Abcg2 expression was lower in UN vs. HF. mRNA expression of fatty acid binding protein Fabppm was higher in UN vs. CON and HF. mRNA and protein levels of the lipid transporter FAT/CD36 were lower in UN, and FATP4 protein levels were lower in HF vs. UN. UN placentae appear less mature with aberrant transport, whereas HF placentae adapt to excessive nutrient supply. Understanding placental adaptations to common nutritional adversities may reveal mechanisms underlying the developmental origins of later disease.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristin L Connor
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Health Sciences, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Mark Kibschull
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Stephen G Matthews
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Stephen J Lye
- Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute, Mount Sinai Hospital, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Enrrico Bloise
- Department of Physiology, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada; Department of Morphology, Federal University of Minas Gerais, Belo Horizonte, Brazil
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11
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Mancini V, Pensabene V. Organs-On-Chip Models of the Female Reproductive System. Bioengineering (Basel) 2019; 6:E103. [PMID: 31703369 PMCID: PMC6956296 DOI: 10.3390/bioengineering6040103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2019] [Revised: 11/04/2019] [Accepted: 11/05/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Microfluidic-based technology attracts great interest in cell biology and medicine, in virtue of the ability to better mimic the in vivo cell microenvironment compared to conventional macroscale cell culture platforms. Recent Organs-on-chip (OoC) models allow to reproduce in vitro tissue and organ-level functions of living organs and systems. These models have been applied for the study of specific functions of the female reproductive tract, which is composed of several organs interconnected through intricate endocrine pathways and communication mechanisms. To date, a disease and toxicology study of this system has been difficult to perform. Thus, there is a compelling need to develop innovative platforms for the generation of disease model and for performing drug toxicity/screening in vitro studies. This review is focused on the analysis of recently published OoC models that recreate pathological and physiological characteristics of the female reproductive organs and tissues. These models aim to be used to assess changes in metabolic activity of the specific cell types and the effect of exposure to hormonal treatment or chemical substances on some aspects of reproduction and fertility. We examined these models in terms of device specifications, operating procedures, accuracy for studying the biochemical and functional activity of living tissues and the paracrine signalling that occurs within the different tissues. These models represent a powerful tool for understanding important diseases and syndromes affecting women all around the world. Immediate adoption of these models will allow to clarify diseases, causes and adverse events occurring during pregnancy such as pre-eclampsia, infertility or preterm birth, endometriosis and infertility.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Mancini
- School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
| | - Virginia Pensabene
- School of Electronic and Electrical Engineering, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK;
- School of Medicine, University of Leeds, Leeds LS2 9JT, UK
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12
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Sangkhae V, Nemeth E. Placental iron transport: The mechanism and regulatory circuits. Free Radic Biol Med 2019; 133:254-261. [PMID: 29981833 PMCID: PMC7059975 DOI: 10.1016/j.freeradbiomed.2018.07.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/15/2018] [Revised: 06/30/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
As the interface between the fetal and maternal circulation, the placenta facilitates both nutrient and waste exchange for the developing fetus. Iron is essential for healthy pregnancy, and transport of iron across the placenta is required for fetal growth and development. Perturbation of this transfer can lead to adverse pregnancy outcomes. Despite its importance, our understanding of how a large amount of iron is transported across placental membranes, how this process is regulated, and which iron transporter proteins function in different placental cells remains rudimentary. Mechanistic studies in mouse models, including placenta-specific deletion or overexpression of iron-related proteins will be essential to make progress. This review summarizes our current understanding about iron transport across the syncytiotrophoblast under physiological conditions and identifies areas for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Veena Sangkhae
- Center for Iron Disorders, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 LeConte Ave, CHS 37-131, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
| | - Elizabeta Nemeth
- Center for Iron Disorders, Department of Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine, University of California, Los Angeles, 10833 LeConte Ave, CHS 37-131, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
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13
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Kiskova T, Mytsko Y, Schepelmann M, Helmer H, Fuchs R, Miedl H, Wadsack C, Ellinger I. Expression of the neonatal Fc-receptor in placental-fetal endothelium and in cells of the placental immune system. Placenta 2019; 78:36-43. [PMID: 30955709 DOI: 10.1016/j.placenta.2019.02.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2018] [Revised: 01/21/2019] [Accepted: 02/22/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Starting from the second trimester of pregnancy, passive immunity is provided to the human fetus by transplacental transfer of maternal IgG. IgG transfer depends on the neonatal Fc receptor, FcRn. While FcRn localization in the placental syncytiotrophoblast (STB) has been demonstrated unequivocally, FcRn expression in placental-fetal endothelial cells (pFECs), which are part of the materno-fetal barrier, is still unclear. Therefore, this study aimed to elucidate the spatio-specific expression pattern of FcRn in placental tissue. METHODS FcRn expression was investigated by western blotting in term placentas and in isolated human placental arterial and venous endothelial cells (HPAEC, HPVEC) using a validated affinity-purified polyclonal anti-peptide antibody against the cytoplasmic tail of FcRn α-chain. In situ localization of FcRn and IgG was studied by immunofluorescence microscopy on tissue sections of healthy term placentas. RESULTS FcRn expression was demonstrated in placental vasculature particularly, in HPAEC, and HPVEC. FcRn was localized in cytokeratin 7+ STB and in CD31+ pFECs in terminal as well as stem villi in situ. Additionally, CD68+ placental macrophages exhibited FcRn expression in situ. Endogenous IgG partially co-localized with FcRn in STB, pFECs, and in placental macrophages. DISCUSSION Placental FcRn expression in endothelial cells and macrophages is analogous to the expression pattern in other organs. FcRn expression in pFECs suggests an involvement of FcRn in IgG transcytosis and/or participation in recycling/salvaging of maternal IgG present in the fetal circulation. FcRn expression in placental macrophages may account for recycling of monomeric IgG and/or processing and presentation of immune complexes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Terezia Kiskova
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Yuliya Mytsko
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Martin Schepelmann
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Hanns Helmer
- Division of Obstetrics and Feto-Maternal Medicine, University Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Renate Fuchs
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria
| | - Heidi Miedl
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Christian Wadsack
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria; BioTechMed-Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Isabella Ellinger
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Waehringer Guertel 18-20, 1090, Vienna, Austria.
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14
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Brook A, Hoaksey A, Gurung R, Yoong EEC, Sneyd R, Baynes GC, Bischof H, Jones S, Higgins LE, Jones C, Greenwood SL, Jones RL, Gram M, Lang I, Desoye G, Myers J, Schneider H, Hansson SR, Crocker IP, Brownbill P. Cell free hemoglobin in the fetoplacental circulation: a novel cause of fetal growth restriction? FASEB J 2018; 32:5436-5446. [PMID: 29723064 DOI: 10.1096/fj.201800264r] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/07/2024]
Abstract
Cell free hemoglobin impairs vascular function and blood flow in adult cardiovascular disease. In this study, we investigated the hypothesis that free fetal hemoglobin (fHbF) compromises vascular integrity and function in the fetoplacental circulation, contributing to the increased vascular resistance associated with fetal growth restriction (FGR). Women with normal and FGR pregnancies were recruited and their placentas collected freshly postpartum. FGR fetal capillaries showed evidence of erythrocyte vascular packing and extravasation. Fetal cord blood fHbF levels were higher in FGR than in normal pregnancies ( P < 0.05) and the elevation of fHbF in relation to heme oxygenase-1 suggests a failure of expected catabolic compensation, which occurs in adults. During ex vivo placental perfusion, pathophysiological fHbF concentrations significantly increased fetal-side microcirculatory resistance ( P < 0.05). fHbF sequestered NO in acute and chronic exposure models ( P < 0.001), and fHbF-primed placental endothelial cells developed a proinflammatory phenotype, demonstrated by activation of NF-κB pathway, generation of IL-1α and TNF-α (both P < 0.05), uncontrolled angiogenesis, and disruption of endothelial cell flow alignment. Elevated fHbF contributes to increased fetoplacental vascular resistance and impaired endothelial protection. This unrecognized mechanism for fetal compromise offers a novel insight into FGR as well as a potential explanation for associated poor fetal outcomes such as fetal demise and stillbirth.-Brook, A., Hoaksey, A., Gurung, R., Yoong, E. E. C., Sneyd, R., Baynes, G. C., Bischof, H., Jones, S., Higgins, L. E., Jones, C., Greenwood, S. L., Jones, R. L., Gram, M., Lang, I., Desoye, G., Myers, J., Schneider, H., Hansson, S. R., Crocker, I. P., Brownbill, P. Cell free hemoglobin in the fetoplacental circulation: a novel cause of fetal growth restriction?
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Brook
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Annie Hoaksey
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rekha Gurung
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Edward E C Yoong
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rosanna Sneyd
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Georgia C Baynes
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Helen Bischof
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Jones
- School of Healthcare Sciences, Manchester Metropolitan University, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Lucy E Higgins
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Carolyn Jones
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Susan L Greenwood
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca L Jones
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Magnus Gram
- Division of Infection Medicine, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ingrid Lang
- Institute of Histology and Embryology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Gernot Desoye
- Department of Clinical Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Jenny Myers
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Henning Schneider
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Inselspital, University of Bern, Bern, Switzerland
| | - Stefan R Hansson
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Institute of Clinical Sciences, Lund University, Lund, Sweden
| | - Ian P Crocker
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Brownbill
- Maternal and Fetal Health Research Centre, Division of Developmental Biology and Medicine, School of Medical Sciences, Faculty of Biology, Medicine, and Health, University of Manchester, Manchester, United Kingdom
- St. Mary's Hospital, Manchester University National Health Service (NHS) Foundation Trust, Manchester Academic Health Science Centre, Manchester, United Kingdom
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15
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In Vitro Models for Studying Transport Across Epithelial Tissue Barriers. Ann Biomed Eng 2018; 47:1-21. [DOI: 10.1007/s10439-018-02124-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2018] [Accepted: 08/28/2018] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
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16
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Biomimetic Placenta-Fetus Model Demonstrating Maternal-Fetal Transmission and Fetal Neural Toxicity of Zika Virus. Ann Biomed Eng 2018; 46:1963-1974. [PMID: 30003503 DOI: 10.1007/s10439-018-2090-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2018] [Accepted: 07/03/2018] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
Recent global epidemics of viral infection such as Zika virus (ZIKV) and associated birth defects from maternal-fetal viral transmission highlights the critical unmet need for experimental models that adequately recapitulates the biology of the human maternal-fetal interface and downstream fetal development. Herein, we report an in vitro biomimetic placenta-fetus model of the maternal-fetal interface and downstream fetal cells. Using a tissue engineering approach, we built a 3D model incorporating placental trophoblast and endothelial cells into an extracellular matrix environment and validated formation of the maternal-fetal interface. We utilized this model to study ZIKV exposure to the placenta and neural progenitor cells. Our results indicated ZIKV infects both trophoblast and endothelial cells, leading to a higher viral load exposed to fetal cells downstream of the barrier. Viral inhibition by chloroquine reduced the amount of virus both in the placenta and transmitted to fetal cells. A sustained downstream neural cell viability in contrast to significantly reduced viability in an acellular model indicates that the placenta sequesters ZIKV consistent with clinical observations. These findings suggest that the placenta can modulate ZIKV exposure-induced fetal damage. Moreover, such tissue models can enable rigorous assessment of potential therapeutics for maternal-fetal medicine.
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17
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Aengenheister L, Keevend K, Muoth C, Schönenberger R, Diener L, Wick P, Buerki-Thurnherr T. An advanced human in vitro co-culture model for translocation studies across the placental barrier. Sci Rep 2018; 8:5388. [PMID: 29599470 PMCID: PMC5876397 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-23410-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 69] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2017] [Accepted: 03/12/2018] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Although various drugs, environmental pollutants and nanoparticles (NP) can cross the human placental barrier and may harm the developing fetus, knowledge on predictive placental transfer rates and the underlying transport pathways is mostly lacking. Current available in vitro placental transfer models are often inappropriate for translocation studies of macromolecules or NPs and do not consider barrier function of placental endothelial cells (EC). Therefore, we developed a human placental in vitro co-culture transfer model with tight layers of trophoblasts (BeWo b30) and placental microvascular ECs (HPEC-A2) on a low-absorbing, 3 µm porous membrane. Translocation studies with four model substances and two polystyrene (PS) NPs across the individual and co-culture layers revealed that for most of these compounds, the trophoblast and the EC layer both demonstrate similar, but not additive, retention capacity. Only the paracellular marker Na-F was substantially more retained by the BeWo layer. Furthermore, simple shaking, which is often applied to mimic placental perfusion, did not alter translocation kinetics compared to static exposure. In conclusion, we developed a novel placental co-culture model, which provides predictive values for translocation of a broad variety of molecules and NPs and enables valuable mechanistic investigations on cell type-specific placental barrier function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leonie Aengenheister
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Kerda Keevend
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Carina Muoth
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - René Schönenberger
- UTOX, EAWAG, Swiss Federal Institute of Aquatic Science and Technology, Ueberlandstrasse 133, 8600, Dübendorf, Switzerland
| | - Liliane Diener
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Peter Wick
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Tina Buerki-Thurnherr
- Particles-Biology Interactions, Empa, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, 9014, St. Gallen, Switzerland.
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18
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Abstract
Epidemiological evidence links an individual's susceptibility to chronic disease in adult life to events during their intrauterine phase of development. Biologically this should not be unexpected, for organ systems are at their most plastic when progenitor cells are proliferating and differentiating. Influences operating at this time can permanently affect their structure and functional capacity, and the activity of enzyme systems and endocrine axes. It is now appreciated that such effects lay the foundations for a diverse array of diseases that become manifest many years later, often in response to secondary environmental stressors. Fetal development is underpinned by the placenta, the organ that forms the interface between the fetus and its mother. All nutrients and oxygen reaching the fetus must pass through this organ. The placenta also has major endocrine functions, orchestrating maternal adaptations to pregnancy and mobilizing resources for fetal use. In addition, it acts as a selective barrier, creating a protective milieu by minimizing exposure of the fetus to maternal hormones, such as glucocorticoids, xenobiotics, pathogens, and parasites. The placenta shows a remarkable capacity to adapt to adverse environmental cues and lessen their impact on the fetus. However, if placental function is impaired, or its capacity to adapt is exceeded, then fetal development may be compromised. Here, we explore the complex relationships between the placental phenotype and developmental programming of chronic disease in the offspring. Ensuring optimal placentation offers a new approach to the prevention of disorders such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and obesity, which are reaching epidemic proportions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Graham J Burton
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; and Department of Medicine, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, and Moore Institute for Nutrition and Wellness, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Abigail L Fowden
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; and Department of Medicine, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, and Moore Institute for Nutrition and Wellness, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
| | - Kent L Thornburg
- Centre for Trophoblast Research and Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom; and Department of Medicine, Knight Cardiovascular Institute, and Moore Institute for Nutrition and Wellness, Oregon Health and Science University, Portland, Oregon
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19
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Blundell C, Tess ER, Schanzer ASR, Coutifaris C, Su EJ, Parry S, Huh D. A microphysiological model of the human placental barrier. LAB ON A CHIP 2016; 16:3065-73. [PMID: 27229450 PMCID: PMC4970951 DOI: 10.1039/c6lc00259e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 160] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
During human pregnancy, the fetal circulation is separated from maternal blood in the placenta by two cell layers - the fetal capillary endothelium and placental trophoblast. This placental barrier plays an essential role in fetal development and health by tightly regulating the exchange of endogenous and exogenous materials between the mother and the fetus. Here we present a microengineered device that provides a novel platform to mimic the structural and functional complexity of this specialized tissue in vitro. Our model is created in a multilayered microfluidic system that enables co-culture of human trophoblast cells and human fetal endothelial cells in a physiologically relevant spatial arrangement to replicate the characteristic architecture of the human placental barrier. We have engineered this co-culture model to induce progressive fusion of trophoblast cells and to form a syncytialized epithelium that resembles the syncytiotrophoblast in vivo. Our system also allows the cultured trophoblasts to form dense microvilli under dynamic flow conditions and to reconstitute expression and physiological localization of membrane transport proteins, such as glucose transporters (GLUTs), critical to the barrier function of the placenta. To provide a proof-of-principle for using this microdevice to recapitulate native function of the placental barrier, we demonstrated physiological transport of glucose across the microengineered maternal-fetal interface. Importantly, the rate of maternal-to-fetal glucose transfer in this system closely approximated that measured in ex vivo perfused human placentas. Our "placenta-on-a-chip" platform represents an important advance in the development of new technologies to model and study the physiological complexity of the human placenta for a wide variety of applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cassidy Blundell
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Emily R Tess
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Ariana S R Schanzer
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
| | - Christos Coutifaris
- Division of Reproductive Endocrinology and Infertility, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Emily J Su
- Department of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, University of Colorado Denver, Denver, CO, USA
| | - Samuel Parry
- Division of Maternal-Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Pennsylvania Perelman School of Medicine, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Dongeun Huh
- Department of Bioengineering, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA.
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20
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Prediction of placental barrier permeability: a model based on partial least squares variable selection procedure. Molecules 2015; 20:8270-86. [PMID: 25961165 PMCID: PMC6272791 DOI: 10.3390/molecules20058270] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2015] [Revised: 04/20/2015] [Accepted: 04/30/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Assessing the human placental barrier permeability of drugs is very important to guarantee drug safety during pregnancy. Quantitative structure–activity relationship (QSAR) method was used as an effective assessing tool for the placental transfer study of drugs, while in vitro human placental perfusion is the most widely used method. In this study, the partial least squares (PLS) variable selection and modeling procedure was used to pick out optimal descriptors from a pool of 620 descriptors of 65 compounds and to simultaneously develop a QSAR model between the descriptors and the placental barrier permeability expressed by the clearance indices (CI). The model was subjected to internal validation by cross-validation and y-randomization and to external validation by predicting CI values of 19 compounds. It was shown that the model developed is robust and has a good predictive potential (r2 = 0.9064, RMSE = 0.09, q2 = 0.7323, rp2 = 0.7656, RMSP = 0.14). The mechanistic interpretation of the final model was given by the high variable importance in projection values of descriptors. Using PLS procedure, we can rapidly and effectively select optimal descriptors and thus construct a model with good stability and predictability. This analysis can provide an effective tool for the high-throughput screening of the placental barrier permeability of drugs.
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