Masters Applied Projects

Project 12

Image Analysis to Quantify and Characterize the Phenotypic Distribution of Trophoblasts within Artificial Placenta Organoids

Student: Felicia Lindstrom

Mentors: Dr. Jessica Weaver – SBHSE
Dr. Sarah E. Stabenfeldt – SBHSE
Dr. Kuei-Chun (Mark) Wang – SBHSE

YouTube Link: View the video link below before joining the zoom meeting

Zoom link: https://asu.zoom.us/j/9369028287

Time: 10am – noon

Abstract

Trophoblasts proliferate and differentiate rapidly during the first trimester of pregnancy. During this period a number of complications can develop and create issues for the mother and the fetus. Cell lines JEG-3 and JAR were cultured to assist with characterizing the cell surface markers. The cell lines and PEG was functionalized with crosslinkers and adhesion ligands, and then stained with primary and secondary antibodies. The PEG gels were imaged and known phenotypes were used quantify the distribution of the trophoblast. Our data suggests the resulting cell markers were identified on the following trophoblasts: ITGA6 on cytotrophoblasts (CT), syndecan-1on syncytiotrophoblast (ST), and HLA-G on extravillous trophoblast (EVT). These specific phenotypes may serve as a powerful instrument in identifying future failures in placentation.