What are the functions of the placenta based on the provided information?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking for a summary of the information related to the placenta and its functions as presented in the module. It covers its structure, nutrient transport mechanisms, and endocrine functions.
Answer
The placenta supports nutrient and waste exchange, hormonal function, and fetal protection.
The placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, removes waste, has endocrine functions (producing hormones like hCG), offers immunological protection, and metabolizes substances. It also facilitates the exchange of nutrients via diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport, and pinocytosis.
Answer for screen readers
The placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to the fetus, removes waste, has endocrine functions (producing hormones like hCG), offers immunological protection, and metabolizes substances. It also facilitates the exchange of nutrients via diffusion, facilitated diffusion, active transport, and pinocytosis.
More Information
The placenta's role is crucial in maintaining pregnancy, providing essential gases and nutrients while also acting as an immune barrier to protect the fetus.
Tips
Common mistakes include not recognizing the placenta's hormone production and its role in immune response.
Sources
- Placenta: Overview, Anatomy, Function & Complications - my.clevelandclinic.org
- Physiology, Placenta - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf - ncbi.nlm.nih.gov
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