Blastomeres
Blastomeres
Blastomeres (pronounced: blas·to·mere | \ ˈblas-tə-ˌmir) are cells formed by the division of a fertilized egg or zygote. The term is derived from the Greek words "blastos" meaning sprout and "meros" meaning part.
Definition
Blastomeres are the building blocks of the embryo. They are produced by a type of cell division called cleavage. Each blastomere contains a copy of the zygote's genetic material and has the potential to develop into any type of cell in the body, a property known as totipotency.
Development
The first cleavage of the zygote results in two blastomeres. Subsequent cleavages produce more blastomeres, which decrease in size with each division. After several divisions, the blastomeres compact to form a morula, a solid ball of cells. Further development and cavitation of the morula leads to the formation of the blastocyst, a hollow structure with an outer layer of cells (the trophoblast) and an inner cell mass.
Role in Assisted Reproduction
In in vitro fertilization (IVF) procedures, the number, size, and symmetry of blastomeres are often used as indicators of embryo quality and potential for successful implantation. Abnormalities in blastomere division can lead to aneuploidy, a condition where cells have an abnormal number of chromosomes, which is a common cause of miscarriage and certain genetic disorders.
Related Terms
- Zygote: A fertilized egg before it begins dividing into blastomeres.
- Cleavage: The process of cell division in the early embryo that produces blastomeres.
- Morula: An early stage of embryonic development, consisting of a solid ball of blastomeres.
- Blastocyst: A later stage of embryonic development, consisting of a hollow ball of cells with an inner cell mass.
- Trophoblast: The outer layer of cells in the blastocyst, which contributes to the formation of the placenta.
- Aneuploidy: A condition where cells have an abnormal number of chromosomes, often due to errors in cell division.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Blastomeres
- Wikipedia's article - Blastomeres
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