Semi quantitative expression analysis of MDR3, FIC1, BSEP, OATP-A, OATP-C,OATP-D, OATP-E and NTCP gene transcripts in 1st and 3rd trimester human placenta.

Using real time RT-PCR, we have detected expression of seven genes that influence bile acid transport,MDR3, FIC1, BSEP, OATP-A, OATP-C, OATP-D and OATP-E, in normal human placenta. With the exception of OATP-C and OATP-E these genes were found to be differentially expressed in 1st trimester and 3rd trimester placentae. MDR3 gene expression was found to be up regulated four fold in 3rd trimester placentae compared to 1st trimester, OATP-A gene expression was down regulated eight fold, OATP-D was down regulated 17 fold, while FIC1 expression was reduced by 33 fold in the 3rd trimester. OATP-C and BSEP gene expression was not detected in the 3rd trimester placenta, while low levels of transcripts were detected in the 1st trimester placentae. Transcripts of the hepatic sinusoidal bile acid transporter, NTCP, were not detected in placenta.