Abstract
The placental labyrinth of the chorioallantoic placenta of the rat was studied with transmission and scanning electron microscopy. Full-term placentas were investigated after perfusion fixation from the maternal and fetal circulation, including thin-sectioning and freeze-fracturing. The labyrinthal three-dimensional structure was found not to be trabecular but spongious lamellar. We propose a division of the lamellae into three groups—the first, second, and third order. The trophoblastic layers are described in detail, showing a cellular layer I and two syncytial layers II and III. Layer I is found to be fenestrated and highly permeable. Layers II and III are connected by extended gap junction areas. It is suggested that the gap junctions function as a molecular sieve and represent the limiting barrier in diaplacental transport of the choriollantoic placenta. Fetal capillaries are fenestrated and endothelial cells are connected by tight junctions. The functional significance of the morphologic findings is discussed.
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