Indian Scientists Develop 'Placenta-on-Chip' Technology to Revolutionize Pregnancy Research A team of Indian researchers has unveiled a groundbreaking innovation in biomedical science—a "placenta-on-chip" model designed to replicate critical functions of the human placenta. Developed by the ICMR-National Institute for Research on Women's Health (ICMR-NIRWoH) in collaboration with IIT Bombay, the technology represents a significant leap in understanding pregnancy dynamics and addressing complications such as gestational diabetes. This artificial platform mimics the complex interactions between the mother and fetus, offering a potential alternative to traditional animal testing in medical research. The "placenta-on-chip" system is engineered to simulate essential biological processes that sustain pregnancy. These include the production of pregnancy hormones, the transfer of nutrients from the mother to the fetus, the removal of waste products like urea, and the regulation of selective barriers that protect the developing baby. By replicating these functions, the model can provide insights into how the placenta manages glucose levels during conditions like gestational diabetes, which is characterized by elevated blood sugar in pregnant women. The platform’s ability to respond to hyperglycemic environments mirrors real-world scenarios, making it a valuable tool for studying metabolic disorders during pregnancy. Beyond its role in understanding pregnancy complications, the technology opens new avenues for research into placental biology. Scientists can use the model to investigate how medications cross the placental barrier, ensuring safer drug development for expectant mothers. This capability is particularly important for evaluating therapies that may affect fetal development.#iit_bombay #icmr_nirwoh #dr_geetanjali_sachdeva #placenta_on_chip #gestational_diabetes
