Dr. Michael J. Soares: Institute for Reproduction and Perinatal Research Departments of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and Pediatrics, University of Kansas Medical Center, Kansas City, Kansas

Fetal Health Research, Children's Research Institute, Children's Mercy, Kansas City, Missouri.

Title: Plasticity, invasive trophoblast, and placental health

Abstract: Hemochorial placentation is orchestrated through highly regulated temporal and spatial decisions governing the fate of trophoblast stem/progenitor cells. Trophoblast cell acquisition of specializations facilitating invasion and uterine spiral artery remodeling is a labile process, sensitive to the environment, and represents a process that is vulnerable to dysmorphogenesis in pathologic states. Invasive trophoblast cells exit the placenta and move into the uterine stroma through interstitial and endovascular routes. These developmental processes are conserved in rat and human placentation. The rat exhibits deep intrauterine trophoblast invasion and is an experimentally tractable model for investigating mechanisms controlling trophoblast-directed changes in the uterine vasculature. Elements of these developmental events can be modeled and hypotheses tested in rat trophoblast stem cells and in genetically-manipulated rats. Hypoxia can be used as a tool to elucidate acquisition of the invasive trophoblast phenotype. Placental adaptations to environmental challenges highlight the importance of plasticity in safeguarding a healthy pregnancy. (Supported by grants from the NIH HD020676 and HD079363)

Refreshments will be served prior to the GDCB Seminar at 3:45 p.m.

Host: Geetu Tuteja