Research A-Z
Trophoblastic
Definition
The outer layer of the mammalian blastocyst that supplies nutrition to the embryo. It facilitates implantation by eroding away the tissues of the uterus, with which it comes in contact, and allows the blastocyst to sink into the cavity formed in the uterine wall. It differentiates into the extraembryonic membranes surrounding the embryo.
Also called trophoderm.
