Mesonephros
Mesonephros
Mesonephros (pronunciation: /mɛsəˈnɛfrɒs/) is a temporary kidney structure found in the embryos of mammals, birds, and reptiles. The term is derived from the Greek words 'mesos' meaning middle and 'nephros' meaning kidney.
Etymology
The term 'Mesonephros' is derived from the Greek words 'mesos' (middle) and 'nephros' (kidney). It is so named because it is the second of the three kidney structures that develop in a vertebrate, located between the pronephros (the first, most anterior kidney structure) and the metanephros (the third, most posterior and permanent kidney structure).
Function
The Mesonephros serves as the main excretory organ during the early stages of embryonic development. It is composed of a series of tubules that filter waste products from the blood and excrete them into the amniotic fluid. By the end of the embryonic period, the Mesonephros gradually degenerates and its functions are taken over by the Metanephros, which develops into the permanent kidney.
Related Terms
- Pronephros: The first, most anterior kidney structure that develops in a vertebrate embryo.
- Metanephros: The third, most posterior kidney structure that develops in a vertebrate embryo. It eventually develops into the permanent kidney.
- Nephron: The functional unit of the kidney, responsible for filtering waste products from the blood.
- Amniotic fluid: The protective fluid that surrounds the embryo or fetus in the amniotic sac.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Mesonephros
- Wikipedia's article - Mesonephros
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