460 ANATOMICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL OBSERVATIONS. 



8. The function of the internal cells of the placental villi 

 is to absorb, through the internal membrane, the matter secreted 

 by the agency of the external cells of the villi. 



9. The external cells of the placental villi perform, during 

 intra-uterine existence, a function for which is substituted in 

 extra-uterine life the digestive action of the gastro-intestinal 

 mucous membrane. 



10. The internal cells of the placental villi perform, during 

 intra-uterine existence, a function for which is substituted in 

 extra-uterine life the action of the absorbing chyle-cells of 

 the intestinal villi. 



11. The placenta, therefore, not only performs, as has 

 been always admitted, the function of a lung, but also the 

 function of an intestinal tube. 



