Impact of Trypanosoma cruzi Infection on GLUT1 Expression in Human Placenta
Author Information
Author(s): Luciana Mezzano, Gastón Repossi, Ricardo E. Fretes, Susana Lin, María José Sartori, Sofía G. de Fabro
Primary Institution: Universidad Nacional de Córdoba
Hypothesis
Does Trypanosoma cruzi infection affect GLUT1 protein expression in human placental explants under different glucose concentrations?
Conclusion
T. cruzi infection significantly reduces GLUT1 expression in human placental explants, especially under high glucose conditions.
Supporting Evidence
- T. cruzi infection reduces GLUT1 expression in placental explants cultured under high glucose conditions.
- GLUT1 expression was significantly lower in infected explants compared to controls.
- High glucose alone also reduced GLUT1 expression, indicating a synergistic effect with T. cruzi infection.
Takeaway
When the parasite that causes Chagas' disease infects the placenta, it makes it harder for the placenta to transport sugar to the baby, especially when there's a lot of sugar around.
Methodology
The study used in vitro assays with human placental explants infected with T. cruzi and cultured under normal and high glucose concentrations, measuring GLUT1 expression through Western blot and immunohistological techniques.
Limitations
The study is limited to in vitro conditions and may not fully represent in vivo interactions.
Participant Demographics
Placentas from clinically and serologically healthy women at 38 to 40 weeks of gestation.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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