New hope for treatments for infertility, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and more Pregnancy-Related Conditions, in a groundbreaking breakthrough, researchers at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem.
The researchers have successfully transformed human skin cells into functional placenta cells for the first time. This achievement could lead to new cell therapies, improved diagnostic tools, and therapeutic interventions for infertility, pregnancy complications, and long-term health problems.
The study, published in Nature Communications, details this extraordinary achievement.
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Lead researchers Dr. Moriyah Naama and Prof. Yossi Buganim and their team used cell reprogramming, which involves introducing a set of genes into skin cells that cause them to assume the identity of placental stem cells. The reprogrammed cells produced various pregnancy hormones, including human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) used in over-the-counter pregnancy tests.
This study is a significant step in understanding placental development and function. It could also lead to new treatments for various pregnancy-related conditions, such as infertility, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.
The researchers used a set of four genes to reprogram the skin cells. These genes are known to be involved in the development of the placenta.
The reprogrammed cells produced all the major cell types that comprise the placenta. This includes trophoblast cells, which are responsible for implantation and early development of the placenta; endothelial cells, which line the placenta’s blood vessels; and mesenchymal cells, which provide support and structure to the placenta.
The reprogrammed cells could produce various pregnancy hormones, including hCG, progesterone, and estrogen. These hormones are essential for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. The study was conducted in vitro, meaning the reprogrammed cells were grown in a laboratory dish.
However, the researchers believe the technique could eventually be used to create functional placenta cells in vivo, meaning inside the body.
This study can potentially revolutionize our understanding of placental development and function. It could also lead to new treatments for various pregnancy-related conditions, such as infertility, preeclampsia, and preterm birth.
