Korean J Obstet Gynecol.  2009 Jul;52(7):700-706.

Expression of embryonic stem cell markers in human term placenta

• Lee GS
• Kim DC
• Choi SK
• Shin JC

Abstract

OBJECTIVE
To determine which compartments of placenta in the term pregnancy express the embryonic stem cell markers.
METHODS
We have used immunohistochemical methods with antibodies to embryonic stem cell surface antigens, TRA 1-60 (Tumor rejection antigen 1-60), TRA 1-81 (Tumor rejection antigen 1-81), SSEA-3 (stage-specific embryonic antigen-3) and SSEA-4 (stage-specific embryonic antigen-4), to identify and localize stem cells in the term placenta.
RESULTS
Stem cell marker-positive cells were found in all layer of placenta. Amnionic epithelial cells was immunoreactive with TRA 1-60, TRA 1-81. Amnionic mesenchymal stromal cells was immunoreactive with TRA 1-81. Chorionic mesenchymal stromal cells was immunoreactive with TRA 1-60 and TRA 1-81. SSEA-3 and SSEA-4 were not stained at any compartment of the term placenta. Compartment that was stained most strongly by TRA 1-60 was the amnionic epithelial cells layer. Compartment that was stained most strongly by TRA 1-81 was the chorionic mesenchymal stromal cells layer.
CONCLUSION
The mesenchymal stroma cells of the amnion and chorion as well as amnionic epithelial cells may be useful source of pluripotent stem cells in the term placenta.

Keyword

Placenta; Embryonic stem cell markers

MeSH Terms

Amnion
Antibodies
Antigens, Surface
Antigens, Tumor-Associated, Carbohydrate
Chorion
Embryonic Stem Cells
Epithelial Cells
Humans
Mesenchymal Stromal Cells
Placenta
Pluripotent Stem Cells
Pregnancy
Rejection (Psychology)
Stage-Specific Embryonic Antigens
Stem Cells
Antibodies
Antigens, Surface
Antigens, Tumor-Associated, Carbohydrate
Stage-Specific Embryonic Antigens