PLACENTAL PERFUSION IN VITRO

Abstract

ABSTRACT Because of its anatomical situation, easily accessible vascular pedicle and closed foetal circulatory system, the chorioallantoic placenta is particularly suitable for perfusion. It is possible to perfuse the whole organ or a limited part of it, such as a single cotyledon or a group of cotyledons. Perfusion methods have been employed for studying some of the numerous functions of the placenta. Such methods permit the study of the metabolism of the isolated organ as well as that of placental permeability to different metabolites, respiratory gases and drugs. Perfusion methods also make possible the investigation of placental endocrine function and seem to represent a more physiological approach than does the study of homogenates, slices or subcellular preparations.