How does the placenta develop and what is its histological structure?
The placenta is a vital organ that develops during pregnancy, ensuring the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products between the mother and fetus. Histologically, the placenta consists of two main components: the chorion and the decidua. The chorion contains chorionic villi, which are finger-like projections that increase the surface area for exchange. The villi are lined with a layer of trophoblast cells, which differentiate into syncytiotrophoblasts and cytotrophoblasts, playing crucial roles in nutrient transfer and hormone production.
