The process of cell-to-cell communication involves small bubbles of cellular material called extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are released from all cells.

Think of EVs as emails – just like an email can have text, video or audio files, EVs are versatile in the messages they can carry. EVs can hold different combinations of proteins, fatty acids and nucleic acids, and this cargo can change depending on the cell type of origin, physiological conditions, and the intended recipient cell.

Several studies have explored the mechanisms of EV synthesis and release and catalogued the variety of enclosed biochemical content.

Interestingly, EVs have been shown to cross physiological barriers, like the blood-brain barrier. If EVs can cross the (almost impenetrable) blood-brain barrier, it is likely that they can also cross the placental barrier. This makes them ideal candidates for mediating communication between fetus and mother.

This project will investigate whether EVs form the main biological communication link between mother and fetus. If fetal EVs can be detected in maternal blood/tissues, it will not only advance basic science knowledge, but also lead to the development of improved blood-based diagnostic markers that can be used to identify fetal abnormalities in a timely and safe manner. Early diagnosis may help prognosis and facilitate improved health outcomes for the unborn child.

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