WOLFFIAN DUCT Meaning and
Definition
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The Wolffian duct, also known as the mesonephric duct, is a embryonic anatomical structure found in both male and female embryos, playing a crucial role in the development of the reproductive system. It is named after Caspar Friedrich Wolff, a German embryologist who first described it in the 18th century.
During early fetal development, the Wolffian duct begins to form in the intermediate mesoderm. In males, it develops into essential structures of the male reproductive system, including the epididymis, vas deferens, and seminal vesicles. These structures are responsible for the transport, storage, and maturation of sperm.
In females, the Wolffian ducts normally regress due to the presence of anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) secreted by the developing ovaries. However, in some instances, remnants of the Wolffian duct may persist and give rise to certain female reproductive abnormalities.
The development and differentiation of the Wolffian ducts are governed by the coordinated action of various genes and hormones. Mutations or disruptions in these factors can lead to congenital malformations of the reproductive system, causing reproductive tract disorders and fertility issues.
Understanding the Wolffian duct is of utmost importance in developmental biology and reproductive medicine, as it provides insights into the complex processes involved in sexual development. It serves as a fundamental pillar in the differentiation of male and female reproductive organs and provides a basis for diagnosing and treating reproductive disorders.
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A canal in the embryo connecting the coelom and the cloaca, forming later the duct of the mesonephros; in the male it persists as the ductus deferens, in the female it is represented by the rudimentary Gartner's canal.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for WOLFFIAN DUCT
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Etymology of WOLFFIAN DUCT
The word "Wolffian Duct" is named after the German anatomist Kaspar Friedrich Wolff. He was born in 1733 and is known for his significant contributions to embryology and comparative anatomy. Wolff's studies led to the discovery of the structures in the developing fetal urogenital system, which includes the duct that later came to be named the "Wolffian Duct" in his honor.
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