Ectodermal

Ectodermal is a term used in embryology to refer to one of the three primary germ layers in the very early embryo. The other two layers are the mesoderm and endoderm, with the ectoderm as the most exterior layer. It emerges and originates from the outer layer of germ cells. The word is derived from the Greek ektos meaning "outside", and derma, meaning "skin."

Development

During the process of embryogenesis, the ectoderm serves as the precursor to several structures including the epidermis, the nervous system, the lens and cornea of the eye, tooth enamel, the pituitary gland, and the adrenal medulla.

Ectodermal Dysplasias

Ectodermal dysplasias are a group of about 150 conditions discovered so far, in which there is abnormal development of the skin, hair, nails, teeth, or sweat glands. Some ectodermal dysplasias are caused by changes (mutations) in genes. They can be inherited from a parent who has the condition, or may be a new mutation in the affected individual.

See Also

• Embryogenesis
• Mesoderm
• Endoderm
• Ectodermal dysplasias

References

Ectodermal Resources
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