Nanoparticles have the potential for transplacental transfer. Therefore the goal of the project is to identify the underlying mechanisms which allow nanoparticles to cross the placenta and study their impact on the placental tissue.
Background
Humans have been exposed to fine and ultra fine particles throughout their history. Since the Industrial Revolution, sources, doses and types of nanoparticles have changed dramatically. In the last decade, the rapidly developing field of nanotechnology has led to an increase of engineered nanoparticles with novel physical and chemical properties. Regardless of whether this exposure is unintended or not, a careful assessment of possible adverse effects is needed. In recent years there has been a growing concern about the possible health influence of exposure to air pollutants during pregnancy. We could recently show that polystyrene particles up to a size of 200 – 300 nm were able to cross the placental barrier without affecting the viability of the explant. However after our first studies, it is still unclear how the nanoparticles (NPs) find their way through the placental barrier.
Aim
Therefore the goal of this project is to identify the mechanisms which allow NPs to cross the placenta and study the impact of NPs on the placental tissue.
Significance
The human placenta perfusion model is a powerful system to achieve a detailed understanding of the nanoparticles transport mechanism across the human placental barrier. The transfer of nanoparticles across the placental barrier is per se not harmful and can provide after a careful assessment of possible side effects an interesting strategy for drug delivery. Drug administration in pregnancy is far more widespread than generally realised. Today's therapy of pregnant women has the dilemma that always both organisms (mother and child) were affected, although only one of them should be treated.
The output of this project would not only be used to address toxicological concerns but would also allow studying new therapy strategies for a target oriented treatment.
Original title: Nanoparticle Transpsort Across the Human Placenta
Grant: CHF 339'749.-
Duration: 36 months
Project leader
- Dr. Peter Wick