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Related Experiment Video

Updated: Jun 17, 2026

In Vitro Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells into Trophoblastic Cells

In Vitro Differentiation of Human Pluripotent Stem Cells into Trophoblastic Cells

Published on: March 16, 2017

Genetic-epigenetic intersection in trophoblast differentiation: implications for extraembryonic tissue function.

Myriam Hemberger¹

¹Laboratory for Developmental Genetics and Imprinting, The Babraham Institute, Babraham Research Campus, Cambridge, UK. myriam.hemberger@bbsrc.ac.uk

|January 20, 2010

Summary

This review explores DNA methylation's role in early mammalian development and placental trophoblast lineage establishment. Understanding these epigenetic mechanisms is crucial for embryo implantation and survival.

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Transcriptional Analysis by Nascent RNA FISH of In Vivo Trophoblast Giant Cells or In Vitro Short-term Cultures of Ectoplacental Cone Explants

Transcriptional Analysis by Nascent RNA FISH of In Vivo Trophoblast Giant Cells or In Vitro Short-term Cultures of Ectoplacental Cone Explants

Published on: August 31, 2016

Area of Science:

Developmental Biology
Epigenetics
Stem Cell Biology

Background:

Recent advances in mammalian development illuminate early cell lineage establishment.
Epigenetics has seen breakthroughs, including 5-hydroxymethylcytosine and non-CG DNA methylation in embryonic stem (ES) cells.
DNA methylation plays a critical role in cell lineage commitment.

Purpose of the Study:

To review recent insights into the genetic-epigenetic intersection governing trophoblast lineage establishment.
To highlight the importance of the trophoblast epigenotype for placental function and embryo survival.

Main Methods:

This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
Focuses on genetic and epigenetic factors influencing trophoblast development.

Main Results:

The establishment of the placental trophoblast lineage is essential for embryo implantation, nutrition, and survival.
A unique trophoblast epigenotype is critical for normal trophoblast differentiation and placental function.
Trophoblast cells are highly susceptible to reprogramming failures due to their unique epigenetics.

Conclusions:

The interplay between genetics and epigenetics is fundamental to trophoblast lineage development.
Understanding the trophoblast epigenotype is key to addressing developmental and reproductive health issues.
Failures in epigenetic reprogramming of trophoblast can lead to adverse developmental outcomes.