Embryoid body
Embryoid Body
Embryoid Body (pronunciation: em-bry-oid bod-y) is a three-dimensional aggregation of cells that is formed when embryonic stem cells (ESCs) are cultured in suspension. The term "embryoid body" is derived from the Greek words "embryo" meaning "young one" and "eidos" meaning "like" or "similar to", referring to its resemblance to an early stage embryo.
Formation
The formation of an embryoid body is a crucial step in the differentiation of ESCs. When ESCs are cultured in suspension, they spontaneously aggregate and form these three-dimensional structures. The process is known as cell aggregation and is a key part of the cell differentiation process.
Structure
The structure of an embryoid body is complex and consists of multiple cell types. These include ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm cells, which are the three primary germ layers in an early-stage embryo. The presence of these cell types within the embryoid body allows for the study of cell differentiation and organogenesis.
Applications
Embryoid bodies have a wide range of applications in both research and clinical settings. They are commonly used in stem cell research to study the process of cell differentiation and organogenesis. In addition, they are also used in drug discovery and toxicology studies to test the effects of various compounds on cell differentiation and organ development.
Related Terms
- Embryonic Stem Cells (ESCs): These are pluripotent stem cells derived from the inner cell mass of a blastocyst, an early-stage preimplantation embryo.
- Cell Differentiation: This is the process by which a less specialized cell becomes a more specialized cell type.
- Organogenesis: This is the process of organ formation that takes place during the development of an organism.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Embryoid body
- Wikipedia's article - Embryoid body
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