PLACENTA--CHORIONIC VILLI, PLACENTAL MEMBRANE, FETAL CAPILLARIES and MATERNAL BLOOD POOLS, 100X - stock photo

PLACENTA--CHORIONIC VILLI, PLACENTAL MEMBRANE, FETAL CAPILLARIES and MATERNAL BLOOD POOLS, 100X. The Chorion is a major and outermost Embryonic Membrane that produces numerous finger-like projections called Chorionic Villi (many seen in the image in cross section) that forms an intimate relationship with the Uterus (Endomtrium) which develops maternal blood pools. The PLACENTAL MEMBRANE is composed of the epithelium of the capillary (endothelium), and the epithelium of the villus--quite visible in this image--therefore the blood of the mother and the blood of the fetus do not mix or connect directly. The vital gas exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide takes place between the blood pools and fetal capillaries in the Chorionic Villi. Numerous red blood cells are seen in the capillaries of the chorionic villi, and the maternal blood pools on the outside of the chorionic villi. Other important nutrients and substances (e.g. wastes) are exchanged in the Placenta.