Single-cell RNA sequencing of leukocytes at the maternal-fetal interface in psyhiological and pathological Nodal-deficient pregnancies

In this study, single-cell RNA-sequencing was used to characterize leukocytes within the mid-gestational decidua and placenta during physiological and pathological Nodal Δ/Δ pregnancies. Eleven distinct immune cell clusters were identified, with an emphasis on myeloid populations (macrophages and neutrophils). In particular, the characterization of placenta-associated maternal macrophages revealed novel functions in the regulation of angiogenesis, immune suppression and endocytosis.

In Nodal Δ/Δ females, the differential abundance and expression profile of these leukocytes reflected the immune dysfunction observed in human reproductive pathologies. Taken together, elucidating roles of leukocytes in placental development provides a basis in the understanding of mechanisms associated with physiological pregnancy and reproductive failure.