Cavitation (embryology)

From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Cavitation (Embryology)

Cavitation is a critical process in embryology that involves the formation of cavities within the blastocyst during the early stages of mammalian development. This process is essential for the formation of the blastocoel, a fluid-filled cavity that plays a significant role in the subsequent stages of embryonic development.

Process[edit | edit source]

Cavitation begins with the formation of a morula, a solid ball of cells. The cells in the morula then undergo compaction, a process that segregates the cells into an outer layer, the trophectoderm, and an inner cell mass. Following compaction, the cells of the trophectoderm begin to secrete fluid, leading to the formation of a small cavity. This cavity expands as more fluid is secreted, eventually forming the blastocoel.

Role in Embryonic Development[edit | edit source]

The formation of the blastocoel through cavitation is a critical step in embryonic development. The blastocoel provides a space for the inner cell mass to develop into the embryo proper, while the trophectoderm develops into the placenta. The blastocoel also plays a role in gastrulation, a process that forms the three primary germ layers of the embryo.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities in cavitation can lead to developmental disorders. For example, failure of cavitation can result in a blighted ovum, a condition where the blastocyst does not develop properly, leading to early pregnancy loss.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Bone.png
This article is a stub related to anatomy. You can help WikiMD by expanding it!


WikiMD
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD

Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro / Zepbound) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia

Let Food Be Thy Medicine
Medicine Thy Food - Hippocrates

Medical Disclaimer: WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. The information on WikiMD is provided as an information resource only, may be incorrect, outdated or misleading, and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. Please consult your health care provider before making any healthcare decisions or for guidance about a specific medical condition. WikiMD expressly disclaims responsibility, and shall have no liability, for any damages, loss, injury, or liability whatsoever suffered as a result of your reliance on the information contained in this site. By visiting this site you agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, which may from time to time be changed or supplemented by WikiMD. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter or use this site. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.

Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD