Which of these is/are function(s) of placenta?
i. production of hormones
ii. exchange of respiratory gases
iii. production of antibodies
iv. removal of nitrogenous waste from foetus to mother

Options

A. only ii and iii
B. only i, ii and iii
C. only i, ii and iv
D. all - i, ii, iii and iv

Answer

To determine the functions of the placenta, we will analyze each option provided in the question.

### Step-by-Step Solution:

1. **Production of Hormones**:
- The placenta plays a crucial role in hormone production during pregnancy. It produces hormones such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), progesterone, and estrogen, which are essential for maintaining pregnancy and supporting fetal development.
- **Conclusion**: This is a function of the placenta.

2. **Exchange of Respiratory Gases**:
- The placenta facilitates the exchange of gases between the mother and the fetus. Oxygen from the mother's blood is transferred to the fetus, while carbon dioxide from the fetus is transferred to the mother's blood for removal.
- **Conclusion**: This is a function of the placenta.

3. **Production of Antibodies**:
- The placenta does not produce antibodies. However, it allows the transfer of maternal antibodies to the fetus, which provides passive immunity. The actual production of antibodies occurs in the mother's immune system, not in the placenta itself.
- **Conclusion**: This is NOT a function of the placenta.

4. **Removal of Nitrogenous Waste from Fetus to Mother**:
- The placenta is involved in the removal of waste products, including nitrogenous wastes, from the fetal blood to the maternal blood for excretion. This is an essential function to maintain the health of the fetus.
- **Conclusion**: This is a function of the placenta.

### Summary of Functions:
- **Functions of the placenta**:
- i. Production of hormones: **Yes**
- ii. Exchange of respiratory gases: **Yes**
- iii. Production of antibodies: **No**
- iv. Removal of nitrogenous waste from fetus to mother: **Yes**

### Final Answer:
The functions of the placenta include:
- i, ii, and iv are functions of the placenta.