Abstract
The placenta is a multifunctional organ that develops during pregnancy and is critical for supporting fetal growth and viability. Major functions of the placenta include facilitating nutrient and gas exchange between maternal and fetal circulations, immunological protection, endocrinological support, and modification of the uterine vasculature. The placenta is comprised of specialized trophoblast cells interacting with extraembryonic mesenchyme and uterine cells. There is diversity in placental structure among mammals. Placentae can be classified into three types based on the number of intervening layers separating trophoblast cells from maternal blood: epitheliochorial, endotheliochorial, and hemochorial. This chapter will describe hemochorial placentation and provide strategies and challenges for its investigation. This type of placentation occurs in primates, including humans, as well as most rodents. Therefore, focus will be placed on placentation not only in humans, but also in mice and rats as well because of their similarities in various aspects of placental development and their common use in laboratory settings.
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