Wolffian duct

Wolffian duct (also known as the mesonephric duct or nephric duct) is an integral part of the reproductive and urinary systems in mammals, including humans. It is named after the German anatomist and physiologist, Kaspar Friedrich Wolff, who first described it in the 18th century.

Development

The Wolffian duct develops during the embryonic stage from the intermediate mesoderm. It forms the primitive urinary system along with the mesonephros. In males, the Wolffian duct develops into the epididymis, vas deferens, and the seminal vesicle. In females, the Wolffian duct degenerates under the influence of Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH).

Function

In males, the Wolffian duct plays a crucial role in the transport of sperm from the testes to the urethra. It forms the epididymis, where sperm matures and is stored. The vas deferens, also formed from the Wolffian duct, transports mature sperm to the urethra during ejaculation.

Clinical significance

Abnormalities in the development of the Wolffian duct can lead to various medical conditions. For instance, persistent Müllerian duct syndrome (PMDS) occurs when the Wolffian duct fails to degenerate in males, leading to the presence of female reproductive structures.

See also

• Müllerian duct
• Mesonephros
• Paramesonephric duct

References

Wolffian duct Resources
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