Generation of Trophoblast Organoids from Chorionic Villus Sampling

Abstract

Studying human placental development and function presents significant challenges due to the inherent difficulties in obtaining and maintaining placental tissue throughout the course of an ongoing pregnancy. Here, we provide a detailed protocol for generating trophoblast organoids from chorionic villi obtained during ongoing pregnancy. Our method results in efficient generation of trophoblast organoids from chorionic villus sampling, does not require preselection of chorionic villi, and controls contamination of decidual gland organoids. The resulting trophoblast organoids spontaneously form syncytiotrophoblasts that start secreting hCG hormone amongst other placenta-specific factors. Our approach facilitates the generation of trophoblast organoids from a variety of genetic backgrounds, including trisomies and gene mutations, and can be aligned with prenatal diagnostic routines. The protocol requires up to 14 days and can be carried out by users with expertise in cell culture.