Human Reproduction

Human Placental Lactogen (hPL) is secreted by the placenta and plays an important role in maintaining pregnancy.
It helps in preparing the mammary glands for lactation and modifies the metabolic state of the mother to support fetal growth.

Step 1: Amniocentesis is a prenatal diagnostic procedure.
Step 2: In this process, a small quantity of amniotic fluid is drawn from the uterus of a pregnant woman.
Step 3: The fluid contains fetal cells and genetic material.
Step 4: It is analyzed to detect chromosomal abnormalities such as Down’s syndrome or genetic disorders like thalassemia.
Step 5: It is not used to diagnose heart, brain, or bone disorders.

Step 1: Estrogen is the primary female sex hormone responsible for secondary sexual characteristics and regulation of the menstrual cycle.
Step 2: During the follicular phase of the menstrual cycle, developing follicles grow and mature.
Step 3: The inner lining of the Graafian follicle, called the **membrane granulosa**, contains cells that secrete estrogen.
Step 4: These granulosa cells convert androgens (from the theca interna) to estrogen using the enzyme aromatase.
Step 5: The corpus luteum secretes progesterone after ovulation, not estrogen.