Histochemical study of the fetal membranes in the human term pregnancy.

The histochemical distribution of polysaccharides and proteins was studied in the human fetal membranes from term pregnancies. The neutral polysaccharide reactions were stronger in the trophoblast layer of the chorion and in the decidua, whereas the acid mucopolysaccharides were equally intense in the connective layers and in the decidua. The protein reactions were always stronger in the decidua. It was demonstrated the existence of a cover of acid mucopolysaccharides over the apical surface of the amniotic epithelium. The possible participation of this cover in water and electrolytes transfer is discussed.