Final answer:
The Human Umbilical Vein (HUV) carries oxygen and nutrients from the placenta to the fetus. After birth, it atrophies and becomes part of the ligament structure in the body. The vasa vasorum nourish the cells of the HUV.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Human Umbilical Vein (HUV) is a single vessel that is part of the umbilical cord, originating from the placenta and running within the umbilical cord to the fetus. This crucial vein carries oxygen- and nutrient-rich blood to the fetal heart. Additionally, the vessel has its own supply system known as the vasa vasorum, which are small blood vessels located within its walls that nourish and remove wastes from the cells of the vessels.
After birth, the umbilical vein along with the arteries in the umbilical cord will collapse and eventually atrophy, becoming fibrotic remnants that exist as ligaments in the mature circulatory system. Initially, the umbilical cord is cut, leaving a stub which will then dry out and fall off, becoming the navel. For the fetus, the umbilical vein is a lifeline, carrying vital nutrients and oxygen from the placenta to their developing body.