Fetal Tissue

Abstract

Fetal tissue engineering, as defined by the contemporary principles of regenerative medicine, is, perhaps surprisingly, a recent development. Yet, numerous properties and therapeutic applications of fetal cells/tissues have been explored experimentally and occasionally clinically for decades. The concept of procuring fetal cells, which are then processed to engineer tissue in parallel to the remainder of gestation, so that an infant or a fetus with a prenatally diagnosed birth defect can benefit from having autologous, expanded tissue readily available for surgical implantation before or after birth, is of evident potential clinical relevance. Fetal annexes such as the amniotic fluid, placenta, and umbilical cord can also provide minimally invasive access to unique fetal progenitor cell populations that are quite conducive to tissue engineering. Although encouraging results have been reported in large animal models of fetal tissue engineering, controlled clinical trials have yet to be carried out. At the same time, it is has been clear for some time that many complications of tissue engineering can be better managed, if not totally prevented, when fetal cells are used. Compared with mature cells, fetal cells have multiple properties that render them better suited for tissue engineering applications. Further, tissue graft implantations into a fetus or neonate lead to developmental and long term impacts unmatched by implantations in virtually all other age groups. This article offers an overview of fetal tissue engineering as a perinatal therapeutic concept, along with general perspectives on fetal cell and tissue construct processing and transplantation.