Читать книгу Genetic Disorders and the Fetus - Группа авторов - Страница 143

The placenta is responsible for many functions, which change as pregnancy proceeds.¹ In early gestation, the primary roles of the placenta include invasion into the maternal endometrium, remodeling of maternal vasculature, and secretion of hormones important to maintain pregnancy. The placenta subsequently regulates blood flow and nutrient delivery to the fetus, buffers the fetus from adverse environmental effects, and generally performs the functions of multiple organs (lung, brain, kidney, immune system, etc.).