Modeling of human placental capillaries by using a unique 3d reconstruction program

Abstract

Purpose: Visualization of the three-dimensional structures is performed by examining two-dimensional sections in histology. It is not always possible to comprehend structure-function integrity. Therefore, it was planned to obtain three-dimensional (3D) models of the capillaries in the placenta terminal villus by using the program developed in the Başkent University’s laboratory and used in studies in different disciplines. The program’s suitability for histology studies will also be assessed.
 Materials and Methods: A term placenta tissue sample was obtained from a 33-year-old healthy woman. Following the plastic embedding procedure, semi-thin serial sections were taken from these blocks. The sections were stained using toluidine blue and examined and photographed by using a light microscope. The 3D modeling procedure was conducted on the light micrographs of serial sections in order to reconstruct villous capillaries. 
 Results: 3D images were obtained from two-dimensional light micrographs by using the same program. It was determined that the vessels running parallel to each other branched harmoniously, forming a capillary network in the terminal villus. Additionally, challenges encountered during the utilization of this program in histological studies are also presented in this study. 
 Conclusion: Fetal blood reaches every part of the terminal villus through the branching capillary network. This feature would increase the surface area of vasculo-syncytial membrane and facilitate feto-maternal exchange. This can be clearly visualized by using 3D models. Three-dimensional modeling helps to understand the structure of all organs and tissues. Given that the current program is freely accessible, it will not incur additional costs for researchers and is open to further improvement by the programmer (erhankiziltan@gmail.com).