Mesodermal

Mesoderm is one of the three primary germ layers in the very early embryo. The other two layers are the ectoderm (outside layer) and endoderm (inside layer), with the mesoderm as the middle layer. The mesoderm forms during the process of gastrulation.

During the third week of embryonic development, the mesoderm can be organized into a series of regions from cranial to caudal. These regions are the prechordal plate mesoderm, chordamesoderm, paraxial mesoderm, intermediate mesoderm, and lateral plate mesoderm.

Development

The mesoderm originates from the epiblast, a layer of cells that cover the hypoblast. During gastrulation, cells from the epiblast migrate to the primitive streak and down into the blastocoel, forming a new layer, the mesoderm.

Derivatives

The mesoderm gives rise to several structures in the adult body. These include:

• The cardiovascular system, including the heart and blood vessels
• The musculoskeletal system, including muscles, bones, and connective tissues
• The urinary system, including the kidneys and ureters
• The reproductive system, including the ovaries or testes and associated structures
• The dermis of the skin
• The lining of the body cavities

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the formation of the mesoderm can lead to a variety of congenital defects, including cardiac defects, skeletal defects, and urinary system defects.

See also

• Ectoderm
• Endoderm
• Gastrulation
• Neural crest

References

Mesodermal Resources
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