Determining sex-specific gene expression differences in human chorion trophoblast cells

Given that we recently characterized CTCs as a distinct cell type from placental trophoblasts, we investigated in this study whether there is evidence for sexual dimorphism in CTCs. We also determined if differential response exists between male and female CTCs when they are treated with LPS, mimicking ascending infection that is associated with chorioamnionitis. Overall design: Primary chorion trophoblast cells were isolated and immortalized from term caesarean section fetal membranes of 3 male and 3 female offspring. To see if differential response exists between male and female CTCs during infection, cells are treated with LPS. RNA-sequencing and cytokine measurement was done to check the response.