Functions of the placenta

Abstract: The placenta is an ephemeral materno-fetal organ with chorionic (fetal) villi bathed in maternal blood spaces, which allows restricted transfer of metabolites and drugs across specialized transfer areas. The placenta develops respiratory, nutritive and excretory functions while the fetal organs mature, and is also an important endocrine organ.
Source: Anaesthesia and intensive care medicine - Category: Anesthesiology Authors: Tags: Physiology Source Type: research