RT Journal Article
T1 Deciphering embryo-maternal cross-talk: advanced in vitro approaches
A1 Santos, Gislaine dos
A1 Millán de la Blanca, María Gemma
A1 Cajas Suárez, Yulia Nathaly
A1 Mazzarella, Rosane
A1 Cañón Beltrán, Karina Esperanza
A1 González Martínez, María Encina
A1 Rizos, Dimitrios
AB Embryo-maternal communication is a critical process that influences early embryonic development, implantation success, and pregnancy outcomes across mammalian species. This review examines the diverse in vitro systems developed to study this complex dialogue, highlighting their applications, advantages, and limitations. We explore conventional approaches such as two-dimensional (2D) cell cultures, which despite their simplicity, face challenges in replicating the three-dimensional (3D) architecture and cellular functions present in vivo. The review progresses through increasingly sophisticated models, including fluid co-culture systems that incorporate bioactive molecules, explant cultures that maintain tissue architecture, air-liquid interface systems that promote epithelial polarization and differentiation, 3D organoid systems that recapitulate complex structural organization, and organ-on-a-chip platforms that recreate mechanical forces and dynamic conditions. Special attention is given to the emerging role of extracellular vesicles (EVs) as mediators of embryo-maternal communication, transporting crucial molecular signals between the embryo and reproductive tract. By comparing these systems across species and developmental stages, we provide a comprehensive framework for selecting appropriate models based on specific research questions. The integration of these in vitro approaches with advanced analytical techniques offers promising avenues for understanding embryo-maternal cross-talk, potentially leading to improved assisted reproductive technologies and strategies to mitigate early pregnancy loss. As technology advances, the continued refinement of these systems will further illuminate the intricate molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying successful embryo development and implantation.
PB Brazilian publication College of Animal Reproduction
SN 1806-9614
YR 2025
FD 2025
LK https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/126124
UL https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14352/126124
LA eng
NO Santos G., Millán de la Blanca MG., Cajas YN., Mazzarella R., Cañón-Beltrán K., Gonzalez Martínez ME.(2025). Rizos D. Deciphering embryo-maternal cross-talk: advanced in vitro approaches. Anim Reprod.;22(3):e20250059. https://doi.org/10.1590/1984-3143-AR2025-0059
NO Author contributionsGS, MGMB and RM: Conceptualization, Methodology, Writing – original draft, Writing – review & editing; GS, YNC and KCB: Conceptualization, Figure preparation, Writing – review & editing; MEGM and DR: Conceptualization, Supervision, Writing – review & editing; DR: Conceptualization, Funding acquisition, Supervision, Writing – review & editing.
NO European Commission
NO Ministerio de Ciencia, Innovación y Universidades (España)
DS Docta Complutense
RD 17 mar 2026