Table of contents

1. Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology5h 43m
2. Cell Chemistry & Cell Components12h 36m
3. Energy & Cell Processes10h 6m
4. Tissues & Histology10h 3m
5. Integumentary System2h 20m
6. Bones & Skeletal Tissue2h 16m
7. The Skeletal System2h 35m
8. Joints2h 17m
9. Muscle Tissue2h 33m
10. Muscles1h 11m
11. Nervous Tissue and Nervous System1h 35m
12. The Central Nervous System1h 6m
- Introduction to the Central Nervous System
  18m
- The Cerebrum
  48m
13. The Peripheral Nervous System1h 26m
14. The Autonomic Nervous System1h 38m
15. The Special Senses2h 41m
16. The Endocrine System2h 48m
17. The Blood3h 22m
18. The Heart3h 42m
19. The Blood Vessels3h 35m
20. The Lymphatic System3h 16m
21. The Immune System14h 37m
22. The Respiratory System3h 20m
23. The Digestive System2h 5m
24. Metabolism and Nutrition4h 0m
25. The Urinary System2h 39m
26. Fluid and Electrolyte Balance, Acid Base Balance37m
27. The Reproductive System2h 5m
28. Human Development1h 21m
29. Heredity3h 32m

28. Human Development

Implantation

Anatomy & Physiology

28. Human Development

Implantation

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Problem 18

Textbook Question

After implantation, how does the developing embryo obtain nutrients? What structures and processes are involved?

Verified step by step guidance

After implantation, the developing embryo begins to obtain nutrients through the maternal blood supply. The process starts with the formation of the trophoblast, which is the outer layer of the blastocyst that interacts with the uterine lining.

The trophoblast differentiates into two layers: the cytotrophoblast (inner layer) and the syncytiotrophoblast (outer layer). The syncytiotrophoblast invades the uterine lining and facilitates the formation of lacunae, which are small spaces filled with maternal blood.

The embryo develops the chorionic villi, which are finger-like projections that extend into the lacunae. These villi contain fetal blood vessels and are surrounded by maternal blood, allowing for the exchange of nutrients, gases, and waste products.

The placenta begins to form as the chorionic villi mature and expand. The placenta serves as the primary structure for nutrient and oxygen exchange between the mother and the developing embryo.

Nutrients are transported from the maternal blood to the fetal blood through diffusion, active transport, and other mechanisms facilitated by the placenta. This ensures the embryo receives the necessary substances for growth and development.

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Key Concepts

Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.

Implantation

Implantation is the process by which a fertilized egg, or blastocyst, attaches itself to the uterine wall. This critical step occurs about six to ten days after fertilization and is essential for establishing a connection between the embryo and the maternal blood supply, allowing for nutrient exchange.

Placenta

The placenta is a specialized organ that forms during pregnancy, facilitating nutrient and gas exchange between the mother and the developing embryo. It develops from the trophoblast cells of the blastocyst and connects to the maternal blood supply, allowing the embryo to receive oxygen and nutrients while removing waste products.

Nutrient Transfer Mechanisms

Nutrient transfer mechanisms refer to the various processes through which the embryo receives essential nutrients from the mother. These include diffusion, active transport, and endocytosis, which enable the transfer of glucose, amino acids, and other vital substances across the placenta, ensuring proper embryonic development.

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