Nephrogenic cord

Nephrogenic cord is a structure in embryonic development that gives rise to the urinary system. It is a part of the intermediate mesoderm, which is one of the three primary germ layers in the very early embryo. The intermediate mesoderm is located between the paraxial mesoderm and the lateral plate mesoderm.

Etymology

The term "nephrogenic" is derived from the Greek words "nephros" meaning "kidney" and "genesis" meaning "origin or formation". The term "cord" is derived from the Latin word "corda" which means "string or rope". Thus, the term "nephrogenic cord" can be interpreted as the "origin or formation of the kidney string or rope".

Development

The nephrogenic cord develops from the intermediate mesoderm during the third week of embryonic development. It forms a longitudinal ridge on each side of the embryo. The nephrogenic cord differentiates into three sets of excretory organs: the pronephros, the mesonephros, and the metanephros. The pronephros is the first to develop but it degenerates quickly and is replaced by the mesonephros. The mesonephros serves as the interim kidney for the first trimester, but it also eventually degenerates. The metanephros develops last and becomes the permanent kidney.

Function

The primary function of the nephrogenic cord is to give rise to the urinary system. It forms the kidneys, ureters, and a part of the bladder. The kidneys filter waste products from the blood and produce urine. The ureters transport urine from the kidneys to the bladder, where it is stored until it can be excreted.

Related Terms

• Intermediate mesoderm
• Pronephros
• Mesonephros
• Metanephros
• Kidney
• Ureter
• Bladder

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