Modelling the Human Placental Interface In Vitro-A Review

Area of Science:

• Reproductive biology and developmental science.
• Stem cell biology and regenerative medicine.
• Bioengineering and microfluidics.

Background:

• The placenta is vital for fetal development, regulating nutrient, oxygen, and waste exchange.
• Studying placental development is challenging due to ethical constraints and interspecies differences.
• Existing research faces limitations in accurately modeling the complex maternal-fetal interface.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review current in vitro models of the human placenta.
• To highlight the applications of these models in studying placental dysfunction and disease.
• To discuss future directions for in vitro placental model development and utilization.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing advancements in human induced pluripotent stem cell (hiPSC) differentiation.
• Employing microfluidic technologies for precise control over the cellular microenvironment.
• Integrating bioprinting techniques to create complex placental tissue structures.

Main Results:

• New in vitro models are being developed to closely replicate in vivo placental physiology.
• These models incorporate relevant placental cell types and controlled microenvironmental conditions.
• The models show promise for elucidating placental dysfunction pathogenesis and facilitating drug testing.

Conclusions:

• In vitro placental models are crucial tools for overcoming research challenges.
• These models enhance our understanding of placental diseases and the maternal-fetal interface.
• Future research will focus on refining these models for more accurate and predictive outcomes.