Which of the following is not true of placenta?
## Core Concept
The placenta is a vital organ that develops in the uterus during pregnancy, playing a crucial role in providing oxygen and nutrients to the fetus and removing waste products. It is composed of both maternal and fetal components, and its structure and function are essential for a healthy pregnancy. The placenta produces various hormones that support pregnancy.
## Why the Correct Answer is Right
The correct answer states that the placenta is not an endocrine organ that produces insulin. This is accurate because while the placenta does produce various hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), human placental lactogen (hPL), estrogen, and progesterone, it does not produce insulin. Instead, the placenta produces hormones that help in maintaining pregnancy and supporting fetal growth.
## Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect
- **Option A:** This option is incorrect because the placenta does indeed produce human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is crucial for maintaining the corpus luteum during early pregnancy.
- **Option B:** This option is incorrect as the placenta does produce human placental lactogen (hPL), also known as human chorionic somatomammotropin (HCS), which helps in regulating maternal glucose and lipid levels.
- **Option C:** This option might seem incorrect in the context of the question since it does not directly relate to a well-known function or characteristic without the specific statement. However, the focus is on what is "not true" about the placenta.
## Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact
A key clinical pearl is that the placenta acts as a significant barrier to maternal-fetal exchange but allows for the transfer of essential nutrients and gases. It also produces hormones essential for pregnancy maintenance. A notable condition related to the placenta is preeclampsia, characterized by new-onset hypertension and often proteinuria after 20 weeks of gestation.
## Correct Answer Line
**Correct Answer: D.**