ECTOBLAST Meaning and
Definition
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Ectoblast is a term commonly used in embryology to refer to the outermost layer of cells in the early development of multicellular organisms. Specifically, it is one of the primary germ layers formed during embryogenesis, with the other two layers being the endoderm and mesoderm. The ectoblast is derived from the outer part of the blastula or blastocyst, which undergoes a process called gastrulation to form these three germ layers.
The ectoblast is responsible for giving rise to various structures and tissues in an organism. It gives rise to the epidermis, which forms the outermost layer of the skin, as well as the nervous system, including the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves. Additionally, it contributes to the formation of several other ectodermal structures such as the hair, nails, and sweat glands.
During embryogenesis, the ectoblast undergoes intricate cellular movements and transformations to establish these diverse tissues and structures. Its differentiation and subsequent specialization are tightly regulated by complex genetic and molecular signals, ensuring proper development and functionality of the ectodermal derivatives.
Understanding the roles and functions of the ectoblast is crucial in developmental biology, as any disruption or abnormality in ectodermal development can result in a wide range of congenital disorders or malformations. By studying this germ layer, scientists gain insights into the fundamental principles governing embryonic development and the formation of complex organisms.
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1. The thickened outer layer or wall of a cell. 2. The ectoderm or epiblast.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for ECTOBLAST
- wctoblast
- sctoblast
- dctoblast
- rctoblast
- 4ctoblast
- 3ctoblast
- extoblast
- evtoblast
- eftoblast
- edtoblast
- ecroblast
- ecfoblast
- ecgoblast
- ecyoblast
- ec6oblast
- ec5oblast
- ectiblast
- ectkblast
- ectlblast
Etymology of ECTOBLAST
The word "ectoblast" is composed of two parts: "ecto-" and "-blast".
The prefix "ecto-" is derived from the Greek word "ektos", meaning "outside" or "external". It is used to indicate something on the outside or the outer layer of an organism.
The suffix "-blast" is also derived from Greek, specifically from the word "blastós", meaning "germ" or "embryonic cell". In biology, "-blast" is commonly used to denote a primitive or developing cell or tissue.
Therefore, when the prefix "ecto-" is combined with the suffix "-blast", the word "ectoblast" is formed, which refers to the outer or external layer of a developing embryo or an early germ cell.
Similar spelling words for ECTOBLAST
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