Integrin α2 marks a niche of trophoblast progenitor cells in first trimester human placenta.

ABSTRACT: During pregnancy the trophoblast cells of the placenta are the only fetal cells in direct contact with maternal blood and decidua. Their functions include transport of nutrients and oxygen, secretion of pregnancy hormones, remodelling of the uterine arteries, and communicating with maternal cells. Despite the importance of trophoblast cells in placental development and successful pregnancy, little is known about the identity, location and differentiation of human trophoblast progenitors. We identify a proliferative trophoblast niche at the base of the cytotrophoblast cell columns in first trimester placentas that is characterised by integrin α2 (ITGA2) expression. Pulse-chase experiments with 5-iodo-2'-deoxyuridine indicate that these cells might contribute to both villous (VCT) and extrav

SUBMITTER: Lee CQE 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6124543 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature