Feto-placental Unit: From Development to Function

The placenta is an intriguing organ that allows us to survive intrauterine life. This essential organ connects both mother and fetus and plays a crucial role in maternal and fetal well-being. This chapter presents an overview of the morphological and functional aspects of human placental development. First, we describe early human placental development and the characterization of the cell types found in the human placenta. Second, the human placenta from the second trimester to the term of gestation is reviewed, focusing on the morphology and specific pathologies that affect the placenta. Finally, we focus on the placenta’s primary functions, such as oxygen and nutrient transport, and their importance for placental development.