Ectoderm
Ectoderm
Ectoderm (/ˈɛktoʊˌdɜːrm/; from the Greek ektos meaning "outside" and derma meaning "skin") is one of the three primary germ layers in the very early embryo. The other two layers are the mesoderm, and endoderm, with the ectoderm as the most exterior (or outermost) layer. It emerges and originates from the outer layer of germ cells.
The ectoderm develops into many important structures and tissues in the body, including the nervous system, the epidermis, and the tooth enamel. It is also responsible for the formation of the lens of the eye, cranial nerves and ganglia, pigment cells, head connective tissues, the epithelium of the nose, sinuses, mouth, and anal canal, among others.
Etymology
The term "ectoderm" comes from the Greek words ektos which means "outside", and derma which means "skin". This is reflective of the ectoderm's role as the outermost layer in the early embryonic stages.
Related Terms
- Neural crest: A transient, multipotent, migratory cell population unique to vertebrates that gives rise to a diverse cell lineage—including melanocytes, craniofacial cartilage and bone, smooth muscle, peripheral and enteric neurons and glia.
- Neural tube: A hollow structure from which the brain and spinal cord form.
- Neurulation: The process where the neural plate folds to form the neural tube.
- Gastrulation: A phase early in the embryonic development of most animals, during which the single-layered blastula is reorganized into a multilayered structure known as the gastrula.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Ectoderm
- Wikipedia's article - Ectoderm
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