Placenta

Placenta

Scientists Grow 'Mini-Placentas' in Lab to Enhance Understanding of Pre-eclampsia

Scientists have successfully grown 'mini-placentas' in a lab, aiming to better understand and prevent pre-eclampsia—a pregnancy disorder affecting six out of every 100 first pregnancies. Pre-eclampsia can have serious consequences for both the mother and the baby, and its exact causes are still not fully understood. By studying these mini-placentas, researchers hope to gain valuable insights into the development of pre-eclampsia and find new ways to prevent and treat this condition.

Pre-eclampsia is characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs such as the liver and kidneys. It can lead to complications such as premature birth, low birth weight, and even maternal and infant mortality. By recreating the placenta in a laboratory setting, scientists can closely examine its structure and function, allowing them to identify any abnormalities or irregularities that may contribute to the development of pre-eclampsia. This research could pave the way for the development of targeted interventions and therapies to improve outcomes for pregnant individuals at risk of pre-eclampsia.

The mini-placentas grown in the lab closely resemble the real placenta in terms of structure and function. They are created using stem cells derived from donated placental tissue. This innovative approach provides researchers with a unique opportunity to study the early stages of placental development and investigate how pre-eclampsia arises. By understanding the underlying mechanisms of this condition, scientists can work towards developing effective preventive measures and treatments, ultimately improving the health and well-being of pregnant individuals and their babies.