[927] Laboratory of Gynaecological Tumor and Development Biology

The placenta is a temporary endocrine organ that ensures the continuous supply of nutrients and gases required for fetal development. It is composed of maternal cells (the endometrium) and fetal cells (trophoblastic villi). Trophoblast cells are in direct contact with maternal blood and uterine cells. Cytotrophoblasts (CTBs) differentiate into two distinct cell types: the syncytiotrophoblast (STB) and the extravillous trophoblast (EVT). EVT cells proliferate, migrate, invade the uterus, and remodel the spiral arteries to provide nutrients to the developing fetus. The STB forms the outer layer of placental villi and is responsible for feto-maternal exchange as well as the production of most placental hormones. Dysregulation of trophoblast invasion and/or differentiation can lead to pregnancy-related pathologies such as preeclampsia or to placental-origin tumors. Our laboratory focuses on the regulation of trophoblast invasion and on the mechanisms driving cytotrophoblast differentiation into STB (cell fusion and differentiation). In parallel, we are developing the use of these cells for regenerative medicine, as well as novel feto-maternal interface models to evaluate the impact of the maternal environment (toxic molecules, endocrine disruptors, viruses, etc.) on pregnancy and fetal development.

Although non-malignant, trophoblast cells share with cancer cells many molecular mechanisms involved in invasion, cell fusion, and immune tolerance. We investigate the molecular pathways underlying these processes, using trophoblast, choriocarcinoma, and ovarian cancer cells, spheroids or organoids as models.

Finally, we apply this knowledge to develop novel targeted therapies against ovarian cancer, gestational trophoblastic diseases, and preterm birth.