Question

What is placenta? Define its structure!state its function?

Answer 1

Dear Student,

The placenta is an organ found only in mammals during development of foetus. It is made up of cells derived from both mother and foetus.

• Placenta allows the exchange of materials between mother and foetus.
• It allows the transfer of nutrients and oxygen from mother to foetus.
• Waste products excreted by the foetus like urea, uric acid and even carbon dioxide are diffused to maternal blood stream by the placenta.
• Antibodies pass through the placenta that provides immunity to the foetus.
• Placenta secretes several hormones that are essential for foetal development.

Function of Placenta:

The exchange of materials between the mother’s blood and the blood of foetus takes place through placenta. It serves as a nutritive, respiratory and excretory organ of the foetus.