Maternal-Fetal Interface
Jin Zhang
Preeclampsia is characterized by a disruption of immune homeostasis at the maternal–fetal interface. To address this, Jin aims to establish a human stem cell–based multicellular assembly that recapitulates a functional maternal–fetal interface in vitro. Using this platform, we will systematically investigate the contributions of key immune cell populations—including macrophages, neutrophils, regulatory T cells, and natural killer cells—to the pathological processes associated with preeclampsia. These processes include impaired trophoblast epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT) and invasion, defective spiral artery remodeling, and placental hypoxia.
As part of this project we will explore therapeutic strategies that target immune cell signaling pathways to restore immune homeostasis at the maternal–fetal interface. This work is expected to provide mechanistic insights into the immunopathogenesis of preeclampsia and to inform the development of immune-based clinical interventions.
This project is at early stages of development. We would be happy to receive inquiries to partake in this project. Make sure to contact jin.zhang@duke.edu if you are interested in undergraduate positions, collaborations or have any questions regarding this project
Volatile Organic Compounds in Context of the Fetus
Morgan Orsolini
Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) exist within IVF clinical laboratory spaces and are known to affect in vitro embryo development and in vitro fertilization (IVF) outcomes at high levels. Despite a clinically recommended thresholds of 400-800 parts per billion (ppb) total VOCs, threshold levels are arbitrarily selected, and mechanisms of toxicity have not been studied in preimplantation embryos. Using a mouse model, Morgan’s doctoral studies investigate VOC embryotoxicity during preimplantation and post-embryo transfer periods in order to elucidate toxicity mechanisms and provide a foundation for updated IVF clinical guidelines on VOCs.
Make sure to contact morgan.orsolini@duke.edu if you are interested in undergraduate positions, collaborations or have any questions regarding this project
Tetrahydrocannabinol
Steven Zhang
Tetrahydrocannabinol(THC) use in the recent years amoung adults has been at historic highs. In spite of that the effects of THC on the development and function of the placenta remains poorly understood. Dr Steven Zhang is interested in testing toxicology of the primary psychoactive cannabinoid – delta9-THC. To achieve this, Dr Zhang is intended to employ gene knock-in labeling in human and macaque trophoblast stem cells and expose macaque trophoblast 2D culture to THC. This will allow us to quantify cytotoxicity of THC and effects of THC on growth and development of trophpoblast cell lineage.
Make sure to contact hengshan.zhang@duke.edu if you are interested in collaborations or with any questions regarding this project, we are currently not looking for undergraduate students to help with this project
Perfluoroalkyl and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
Namya Mellouk
PFAS are a class of forever chemicals widely used in commercial and industrial products. Commonly associated with waterproof materials, AFFF and non-stick cookwear PFAS are known to leak into the food, water and air all across the United States. According to USGS at least 45% of nation’s tap water is contaminated with PFAS and by EWG estimates 99% of all americans have been exposed to PFAS. Previous studies have established association between long-chain PFAS and developmental abnormalities, however toxicology of newer short-chain alternatives to traditional PFAS is still poorly understood. Using a combination of 2D trophoblast stem cell culture and 3D trophoblast organoids Askar and Namya are trying to explore effects of PFBS on health and development of trophoblast cell lineage.
Make sure to contact namya.mellouk@duke.edu if you are interested in undergraduate positions, collaborations or have any questions regarding this project.
