TROPHOBLAST Meaning and
Definition
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The trophoblast is a crucial component of the early stage of embryo development in mammals, acting as the outer layer of cells surrounding the blastocyst. It is primarily responsible for establishing the connection between the developing embryo and the mother's uterus, facilitating the exchange of nutrients, waste products, and gases essential for successful pregnancy.
Functionally, the trophoblast serves as a medium for implantation of the developing embryo into the uterine lining. It secretes enzymes to aid in the invasion and implantation process, facilitating the formation of the placenta. This outer cell layer differentiates into two distinct subtypes: the cytotrophoblast and syncytiotrophoblast. The cytotrophoblast is composed of individual cells while the syncytiotrophoblast is a multinucleated, fused mass of cells formed by the continuous cell fusion of the cytotrophoblast. This syncytium ensures efficient transfer of gases and nutrients from the maternal blood supply to the developing embryo.
Furthermore, the trophoblast is involved in hormonal regulation, specifically the secretion of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is instrumental in pregnancy recognition and maintenance. Moreover, it also plays a critical role in protecting the pregnancy by establishing an immunological barrier that shields the developing embryo from the mother's immune system.
In summary, the trophoblast acts as the interface between the developing embryo and the mother's uterus, assisting in implantation, placental formation, nutrient and gas exchange, hormonal regulation, and protecting the embryo from immune rejection.
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1. The characteristic tissue of the asexnal generation in the development of the organism. 2. An epiblastic layer which has no part in the development of the embryo, or the outer layer of cells enveloping the morula in the cystic stage.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for TROPHOBLAST
- rrophoblast
- frophoblast
- grophoblast
- yrophoblast
- 6rophoblast
- 5rophoblast
- teophoblast
- tdophoblast
- tfophoblast
- ttophoblast
- t5ophoblast
- t4ophoblast
- triphoblast
- trkphoblast
- trlphoblast
- trpphoblast
- tr0phoblast
- tr9phoblast
- troohoblast
Etymology of TROPHOBLAST
The word "trophoblast" is composed of two Greek roots: "tropho-", which means "nourishment", and "-blast", which refers to "a germ cell or an immature cell".
The term was coined by Ernst Ludwig in 1891 to describe the outer layer of cells that forms during the early stages of embryonic development and eventually develops into the placenta. The trophoblast is responsible for implantation, nutrient absorption, and hormone secretion necessary for the development and maintenance of the fetus.
Similar spelling words for TROPHOBLAST
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