AN ULTRASTRUCTURAL STUDY OF CELLS IN CONNECTIVE TISSUE OF THE HUMAN FETAL MEMBRANES / 解剖学报

ABSTRACT

The fine structure of the cells in connective tissue of the human fetal membranes at full term of normal pregancy was examined by electron microscopy. In addition to fibroblasts and Hofbauer's cells,the connective tissue of human fetal membranes contains numerous myofibroblasts.Since the myofibroblasts are able to contract similarly to smooth muscle cells,we suggest that they could contribute, along with the microfibrils which possess elastic property,to the protection of fetal membranes from over distension.