Placenta and Trophoblast: Methods and Protocols Volume 2

Placental research has progressed rapidly over the past several decades by taking advantage of technical advances, such as microarray analysis, reverse transcriptase polymerase chain reaction, protein analysis, and in situ hybridization. In Placenta and Trophoblast: Methods and Protocols, Volumes 1 & 2, internationally recognized investigators describe cutting-edge laboratory techniques for the study of trophoblast and placental biology. The techniques presented range from experimental animal models, to animal and human placental organ and cell culture systems, to morphological, biochemical, and molecular strategies for assessing trophoblast/placental growth, differentiation, and function. Volume 2 provides readily reproducible protocols for studying trophoblast invasion, maternal immune cell responses to pregnancy, and the hormone-producing capabilities of the placenta. There are also methods to investigate the barrier function of the placenta, its role in regulating the transport of nutrients and wastes, and the adaptations of trophoblast cells and the placenta to disease. Highlights include techniques to analyze trophoblast cell interactions with the uterine vasculature and immune cells, and to the endocrine functions of the placenta. A companion first volume concentrates on methods for investigate embryo-uterine implantation, trophoblast cell development, and the organization and molecular characterization of the placenta. Comprehensive and state-of-the-art, Placenta and Trophoblast: Methods and Protocols, Volumes 1 & 2 provide researchers a firm foundation for successful cellular and molecular analysis of the placenta and the establishment of pregnancy.