List of human cell types derived from the germ layers

List of Human Cell Types Derived from the Germ Layers

The human body is composed of numerous cell types that originate from the three primary germ layers: the ectoderm, mesoderm, and endoderm. These germ layers are formed during the early stages of embryonic development and give rise to all the tissues and organs of the body. This article provides a comprehensive list of human cell types derived from these germ layers.

Ectoderm

The ectoderm is the outermost germ layer and it forms the skin and the nervous system. Some of the cell types derived from the ectoderm include:

• Keratinocytes: These are the predominant cell type in the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin.
• Melanocytes: These cells produce melanin, the pigment that gives color to the skin, hair, and eyes.
• Neurons: These are the basic working unit of the brain, designed to transmit information to other nerve cells, muscle, or gland cells.
• Astrocytes: These are star-shaped glial cells in the brain and spinal cord.

Mesoderm

The mesoderm is the middle germ layer and it forms the muscles, bones, and blood vessels. Some of the cell types derived from the mesoderm include:

• Myocytes: These are muscle cells responsible for contraction.
• Osteocytes: These are bone cells that maintain the mineral concentration of the matrix.
• Erythrocytes: These are red blood cells that carry oxygen.
• Leukocytes: These are white blood cells involved in defending the body against both infectious disease and foreign materials.

Endoderm

The endoderm is the innermost germ layer and it forms the lining of the digestive tract and the respiratory system. Some of the cell types derived from the endoderm include:

• Hepatocytes: These are the main cell type in the liver.
• Pancreatic islet cells: These are the cells in the pancreas that produce insulin and glucagon.
• Pneumocytes: These are the cells that line the alveoli in the lungs.
• Enterocytes: These are the cells that line the small intestine and absorb nutrients from food.

See Also

• Germ layer
• Cell biology
• Human embryogenesis

References

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