Label-free detection of uptake, accumulation, and translocation of diesel exhaust particles in ex vivo perfused human placenta.

Overall, we show that DEPs accumulate in key cell types of the placental tissue and can cross the human placenta, although in limited amounts. These findings are crucial for risk assessment and protection of pregnant women and highlight the urgent need for further research on the direct and indirect placenta-mediated developmental toxicity of ambient particulates.