Heterologous cell-cell interactions at the embryo-maternal interface during implantation

• Applicant: Dr. Ivan Bedzhov
• Subject Area: Cell Biology ; Developmental Biology
• Term: since 2025
• Project identifier: Deutsche Forschungsgemeinschaft (DFG) - Project number 564813359

Implantation of the mammalian embryo into the uterine wall is a critical process that connects the conceptus to maternal tissues during the early stages of pregnancy. While almost half of all human pregnancy failures are associated with implantation defects, the cellular mechanisms underlying the heterologous interactions at the embryo-maternal interface are poorly understood. This project aims to model and decipher the cellular mechanisms that mediate the interactions between the implanting embryo and the uterine epithelia. Using cell contact biotinylation, single-cell sequencing and embryo (co)culture approaches, we will map, model and analyse the intricate cell-cell interactions between the invasive trophoblast and the uterine epithelial compartments. In addition to the basic knowledge, a deeper understanding of these interactions may contribute to addressing implantation-related infertility and improving assisted reproductive technologies.

• DFG Programme: Priority Programmes
• Subproject of: SPP 2493: Heterotypic Cell-Cell Interactions in Epithelial Tissues (HetCCI)