The fetomaternal interface shows vascular hypoglycosylation in the tammar wallaby Macropus eugenii: Comparison with a range of non-mammalian and eutherian placentae

The hypoglycosylation of tammar vessels at the fetomaternal interface may allow continued transfer of nutrients and gaseous exchange during the extremely rapid period of organogenesis which occurs during the short 26.5 day pregnancy of this marsupial. Given the short gestation period of the tammar, we suggest that a thinner endothelial glycocalyx has evolved to facilitate diffusion of gases and nutrients between the maternal and fetal compartments.