Trophoblast cell monolayers on polycarbonate membranes as a preparative approach for studies of transcellular...

To investigate mechanisms of transplacental transfer, the trophoblast-derived cells were cultured on a polycarbonate membrane with 0.4 micron pores and medium on each side. The cells could form microscopically continuous cellular sheets over Transwell polycarbonate membranes. Permeability studies suggested however that the cell layer possesses a significant leak that must be controlled for. The results indicate that the transfer of substances through lateral intercellular spaces must be considered when studies of trans-trophoblast transfer are performed using cell monolayers.