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Glite Dictionary
cytotrophoblast

cytotrophoblast

1 9.9
The inner layer of cells in the placenta that divides to help it grow
  • noun
  • /ˌsaɪtoʊˈtroʊfəˌblæst/
  • Specialized
: citosrofoblasto
  • During early pregnancy, the cytotrophoblast helps provide nutrients to the developing embryo.

Examples

  • The cytotrophoblast layer of the placenta is crucial for its development and function.

  • Cells from the cytotrophoblast play an essential role in forming connections with maternal tissues.

  • In vitro studies show that LMWH may promote extravillous trophoblast invasion and cytotrophoblast proliferation, and promote endothelial angiogenesis.

    Academic text (2018)

Surface Forms

cytotrophoblast singular
cytotrophoblasts plural

Morphology

cytotrophoblast = trophoblast (semi-transparent) = cyto + trophoblast

Formation is regular (cyto- 'cell' + trophoblast), but both elements are technical combining forms likely unfamiliar to average learners.

Etymology

Cytotrophoblast breaks into cyto- 'cell', tropho- 'nourish', and -blast 'young cell'. So a cytotrophoblast is the layer of young cells that divide to help feed and build the placenta.