Life's Vital Link: The astonishing role of the placenta

by Y. W. Loke

Overview

The development of the placenta was a pivotal event in evolution. Without it, we would still be laying eggs instead of giving birth to live offspring. It represents the critical link between the foetus and the mother, but its character is extraordinary — it is, in effect, a foreign tissue that invades the mother's body.

Compared to many other animals, the human placenta represents a particularly aggressive body. But how is it managed and controlled? How did such an organ evolve in the first place? And why is it tolerated by the mother? Y.W. Loke explores the nature of the placenta and what it can tell us about evolution, development, and genetics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780199694518
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	07/24/2013
Pages:	276
Product dimensions:	5.70(w) x 8.60(h) x 1.20(d)

About the Author

Y. W. Loke, Emeritus Professor of Reproductive Immunology, University of Cambridge and Fellow of King's College, Cambridge

Professor Y. W. Loke, Fellow of King's College Cambridge, is a highly respected expert in the placenta and its implantation and development. He has published widely in academic journals.

Table of Contents

1. After the Afterbirth2. In the Beginning3. The Principal Players4. Parental tug-o-war5. Connecting with Mother6. Nature's Transplant7. Essential Products8. Gateway9. Journeys EndNotesFurther Reading

Editorial Reviews

Despite being one of the body’s most short-lived organs—arising at conception and dying at the birth of the baby—the placenta deserves to be considered among the most complex and important parts of the human body, argues Loke (Human Implantation, co-author) in this surprisingly delightful book. During its lifetime, the placenta fills many roles: it anchors the developing fetus in the womb; serves as its lungs, kidneys, and digestive tract; transfers waste products from the uterus to the mother; and produces hormones that manipulate maternal behavior in a way that benefits the fetus. Loke, an emeritus professor of reproductive immunology at the University of Cambridge, argues that the placenta has much more to offer in addition to these fascinating functions. Understanding placental growth patterns may shed light on the etiology of cancer; it could also help doctors combat the problem of tissue rejection in organ transplant patients. The placenta is even powerful enough to overcome the effects of time, in a way—post-menopausal women can bring a previously fertilized egg to term thanks to the placenta’s ability to control endocrine levels. Accessible enough for a general readership, Loke’s work provides the key to a truly unique world. 20 b&w illus. & glossary. (Aug.)

Publishers Weekly

"This fine book brings attention to an often-overlooked and discarded body organ, the placenta. Difficult terms are defined, acronyms are spelled out, and the author reviews and summaries. Popular and/or controversial topics [are] briefly discussed. Very helpful illustrative figures, a glossary, and chapter endnotes support the text." -E.R. Paterson, emeritus, SUNY College at Cortland, CHOICE

From the Publisher