Chorioallantoic membrane: Difference between revisions

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'''Chorioallantoic membrane''' ('''CAM''') is a highly vascularized tissue that forms part of the [[placenta]] in most [[mammals]], including [[human]]s. It is formed by the fusion of the [[chorion]] and the [[allantois]], two important structures in early embryonic development.
{{Short description|An article about the chorioallantoic membrane and its applications in research}}


==Structure and Function==
==Chorioallantoic Membrane==
The '''chorioallantoic membrane''' (CAM) is a highly vascularized membrane found in bird and reptile eggs. It is formed by the fusion of the [[chorion]] and the [[allantois]], two of the extraembryonic membranes that support the developing embryo. The CAM plays a crucial role in gas exchange and calcium absorption during embryonic development.


The chorioallantoic membrane is composed of two layers: the outer chorionic layer and the inner allantoic layer. The chorionic layer is derived from the [[trophoblast]], the outermost layer of the [[blastocyst]] that gives rise to the placenta. The allantoic layer is derived from the [[allantois]], a sac-like structure that forms part of the [[embryo]]'s [[urinary system]].
[[File:Smallpox_CAM.png|thumb|right|Smallpox lesions on the chorioallantoic membrane]]


The primary function of the chorioallantoic membrane is to facilitate the exchange of gases, nutrients, and waste products between the mother and the fetus. It is highly vascularized, meaning it contains many [[blood vessel]]s, which allow for efficient transport of these substances.
==Structure and Function==
 
The chorioallantoic membrane is composed of three layers: the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. The ectoderm is the outermost layer, which is in contact with the eggshell. The mesoderm contains a rich network of blood vessels, facilitating the exchange of gases and nutrients. The endoderm is the innermost layer, adjacent to the allantoic cavity.
In addition to its role in nutrient and gas exchange, the chorioallantoic membrane also plays a role in the production of several important [[hormone]]s, including [[human chorionic gonadotropin]] (hCG) and [[progesterone]], which are essential for maintaining pregnancy.


==Clinical Significance==
The primary function of the CAM is to facilitate respiratory gas exchange for the developing embryo. Oxygen from the external environment diffuses through the eggshell and the CAM to reach the embryo, while carbon dioxide produced by the embryo is expelled in the opposite direction. Additionally, the CAM is involved in the absorption of calcium from the eggshell, which is essential for the development of the embryonic skeleton.


Abnormalities in the formation or function of the chorioallantoic membrane can lead to serious complications during pregnancy, including [[miscarriage]], [[preterm labor]], and [[preeclampsia]]. In some cases, defects in the chorioallantoic membrane can be detected through [[ultrasound]] imaging or other diagnostic tests, allowing for early intervention and treatment.
==Applications in Research==
The chorioallantoic membrane is widely used in scientific research due to its accessibility and similarity to human tissues. It serves as a model for studying [[angiogenesis]], the process of new blood vessel formation, which is crucial in cancer research. The CAM assay is a popular method for testing the effects of drugs on angiogenesis.


==Research Applications==
The CAM is also used in virology for the cultivation of viruses. For example, the image to the right shows smallpox lesions on the CAM, demonstrating its use in studying viral infections. The membrane provides a suitable environment for the growth and observation of viral pathogens.


The chorioallantoic membrane is also used as a model system in various areas of [[biomedical research]], including [[cancer research]], [[drug delivery]], and [[tissue engineering]]. Its high vascularization and easy accessibility make it an ideal platform for studying angiogenesis (the formation of new blood vessels), tumor growth, and the effects of various drugs and therapies.
==Related pages==
* [[Embryonic development]]
* [[Angiogenesis]]
* [[Virology]]
* [[Extraembryonic membranes]]


[[Category:Embryology]]
[[Category:Embryology]]
[[Category:Placenta]]
[[Category:Biological membranes]]
[[Category:Human development]]
[[Category:Research methods]]
{{anatomy-stub}}

Latest revision as of 11:35, 15 February 2025

An article about the chorioallantoic membrane and its applications in research


Chorioallantoic Membrane[edit]

The chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) is a highly vascularized membrane found in bird and reptile eggs. It is formed by the fusion of the chorion and the allantois, two of the extraembryonic membranes that support the developing embryo. The CAM plays a crucial role in gas exchange and calcium absorption during embryonic development.

Smallpox lesions on the chorioallantoic membrane

Structure and Function[edit]

The chorioallantoic membrane is composed of three layers: the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. The ectoderm is the outermost layer, which is in contact with the eggshell. The mesoderm contains a rich network of blood vessels, facilitating the exchange of gases and nutrients. The endoderm is the innermost layer, adjacent to the allantoic cavity.

The primary function of the CAM is to facilitate respiratory gas exchange for the developing embryo. Oxygen from the external environment diffuses through the eggshell and the CAM to reach the embryo, while carbon dioxide produced by the embryo is expelled in the opposite direction. Additionally, the CAM is involved in the absorption of calcium from the eggshell, which is essential for the development of the embryonic skeleton.

Applications in Research[edit]

The chorioallantoic membrane is widely used in scientific research due to its accessibility and similarity to human tissues. It serves as a model for studying angiogenesis, the process of new blood vessel formation, which is crucial in cancer research. The CAM assay is a popular method for testing the effects of drugs on angiogenesis.

The CAM is also used in virology for the cultivation of viruses. For example, the image to the right shows smallpox lesions on the CAM, demonstrating its use in studying viral infections. The membrane provides a suitable environment for the growth and observation of viral pathogens.

Related pages[edit]