Genetic and epigenetic control of trophoblast differentiation and function at the feto-maternal interface

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The placenta is the organ that mediates nutrition of the growing fetus during pregnancy and represents the sole source of nutrient supply for the embryo. Thus, a functional placenta is essential for a successful pregnancy in humans and other mammals. To accomplish this important function, cells that will form the placenta, so-called ‘trophoblast’ cells, are the first to differentiate (specialise) in the first few days after fertilization. Once the fertilized egg implants into the uterus, a specialised trophoblast cell type penetrates into the surrounding uterine tissue, makes contact to maternal blood vessels and redirects the maternal blood circulation towards the embryo. These developmental processes are of fundamental importance for the progression of pregnancy.

The project investigates the molecular basis of the early separation of cells that will go on to form the placenta from those that will form the embryo proper. It also investigates the precise role of factors that may be instrumental to enable trophoblast cells to invade into the adjacent uterine tissue and to promote maternal blood flow towards the embryo. This analysis will gain significant insights into the differentiation of placental cells and their vascular interactions that are of critical importance for the outcome of pregnancy.

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