Müllerian duct

Müllerian Duct

The Müllerian duct is a critical structure in the embryonic development of mammals, including humans. It is one of the paired ducts of the embryo that develops into the female reproductive tract. The duct is named after the Swiss anatomist Johannes Peter Müller, who first described these structures.

Development

During the early stages of embryonic development, the Müllerian duct forms alongside the Wolffian duct in both male and female embryos. The duct begins as a small invagination in the coelomic epithelium, which then elongates caudally until it reaches the urogenital sinus.

In female embryos, the Müllerian duct develops into the fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, and the upper part of the vagina. This process is regulated by various genes and proteins, including WNT4, PAX2, and LIM1.

In males

In male embryos, the Müllerian duct degenerates due to the production of Müllerian inhibiting substance (MIS), also known as anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH). This hormone is secreted by the Sertoli cells of the developing testes. The absence of the Müllerian duct in males prevents the development of female reproductive organs.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the development or regression of the Müllerian duct can lead to a variety of congenital disorders. These include Müllerian agenesis, where the duct fails to develop, and persistent Müllerian duct syndrome, where the duct fails to regress in males. Both conditions can lead to fertility issues and may require surgical intervention.

See also

• Wolffian duct
• Sexual differentiation
• Müllerian agenesis
• Persistent Müllerian duct syndrome