Preimplantation factor promotes first trimester trophoblast invasion.

ABSTRACT

OBJECTIVE: Preimplantation factor is a novel embryo-derived peptide that influences key processes in early pregnancy implantation, including immunity, adhesion, remodeling, and apoptosis. Herein, we explore the effects of synthetic preimplantation factor on trophoblast invasion. STUDY DESIGN: Invasion patterns of immortalized cultured HTR-8 trophoblast cells were analyzed through Matrigel extracellular matrix ± synthetic preimplantation factor (25-100 nM) in a transwell assay. Effects were compared with epidermal growth factor 10 µg/mL, scrambled aminoacid sequence of preimplantation factor, or media alone as controls. RESULTS: Synthetic preimplantation factor enhances trophoblast invasion at physiologic doses (at 50 nM, 260%; 95% confidence interval [CI], 174-346%; P = .05; 100 nM ,178%; 95% CI, 170-184%; P < .02), compared with scrambled amnioacid sequence preimplantation factor or control media. Epidermal growth factor added to synthetic preimplantation factor does not further enhance trophoblast invasion (synthetic preimplantation factor 50 nM + epidermal growth factor, 238%; 95% CI, 237-239%; P < .03; synthetic preimplantation factor 100 nM + epidermal growth factor 269%; 95% CI, 265-273%; P < .04). CONCLUSION: Preimplantation factor should be further investigated as it shows a potential preventative or therapeutic role for pregnancy complications associated with inadequate trophoblast invasion.