Vitelline arteries

Vitelline Arteries

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Diagram of a human embryo 15 to 18 days old, showing the vitelline arteries.

The vitelline arteries are a pair of arteries that supply blood to the yolk sac of the developing embryo. These arteries are crucial during the early stages of embryonic development, as they are involved in the formation of the gastrointestinal tract and its associated structures.

Development

During embryogenesis, the vitelline arteries arise from the dorsal aorta and extend to the yolk sac. As the embryo develops, these arteries undergo significant changes. They contribute to the formation of the celiac artery, the superior mesenteric artery, and the inferior mesenteric artery, which are major arteries supplying the abdominal organs.

The vitelline arteries are initially paired structures, but as development progresses, they undergo a complex process of fusion and regression, leading to the formation of the definitive arterial supply to the gut.

Function

In the early embryo, the vitelline arteries are responsible for transporting nutrients from the yolk sac to the developing embryo. This is essential for the growth and differentiation of embryonic tissues. As the placenta forms and takes over the role of nutrient supply, the yolk sac and its associated vasculature, including the vitelline arteries, become less prominent.

Clinical Significance

Abnormal development of the vitelline arteries can lead to congenital anomalies of the gastrointestinal tract. For example, persistence of the vitelline duct, which is associated with the vitelline arteries, can result in Meckel's diverticulum, a common congenital anomaly of the small intestine.

Related Pages

• Yolk sac
• Embryogenesis
• Gastrointestinal tract
• Celiac artery
• Superior mesenteric artery
• Inferior mesenteric artery
• Meckel's diverticulum