Nodal and cripto-1: distinct functions regulate trophoblast specification in mouse pregnancy

The distinct phenotypes observed indicate the different roles Nodal and Cripto-1 play in placental development. This highlights the importance of other TGF-β-dependent and independent pathways involving Cripto-1. Overall, our findings highlight the critical role of Nodal and Cripto-1 in regulating key aspects of placental development, including trophoblast differentiation, cellular specification, and structural organization, promising avenues for future research in placental biology.