The placenta is arguably the most important organ of the body, but paradoxically the most
poorly understood. During its transient existence, it performs actions that are later taken on …

The placenta has evolved to support the development of the embryo and fetus during the
different intrauterine periods of life. By necessity, its development must precede that of the …

Discarded at birth, the placenta is a highly complex and fascinating organ. During the course
of a pregnancy, it acts as the lungs, gut, kidneys, and liver of the fetus. The placenta also has …

The placenta sits at the interface between the maternal and fetal vascular beds where it
mediates nutrient and waste exchange to enable in utero existence. Placental cells …

Comparing the placenta from one species to another can be a challenging task. On one
hand, the gross anatomy of the placenta is at least superficially rather different among …

Despite its crucial role in the health of both the fetus and the pregnant woman, the placenta
is the least understood human organ. Since a growing body of evidence also underscores …

The placenta is an organ that clinicians and embryologists would all agree is important for
pregnancy success. Unfortunately, however, they too often ignore it when they are exploring …

The chorioallantoic placenta is the defining organ of eutherians that has enabled prolonged
intrauterine gestation. As such, normal placental development and function are essential for …

The placenta is a transient fetal organ that plays a critical role in the health and wellbeing of
both the fetus and its mother. Functionally, the placenta sustains the growth of the fetus as it …

The placenta is the gatekeeper between the mother and the fetus. Over the first trimester of
pregnancy, the fetus is nourished by uterine gland secretions in a process known as …