Intraembryonic coelom

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Intraembryonic coelom is a significant structure that forms during the embryonic development of vertebrates. It is a fluid-filled cavity that separates the visceral and parietal layers of the lateral plate mesoderm. The intraembryonic coelom plays a crucial role in the formation of the body cavities, including the pericardial, pleural, and peritoneal cavities.

Formation[edit | edit source]

The intraembryonic coelom forms during the third week of embryonic development. It begins as small, isolated cavities within the lateral plate mesoderm. These cavities gradually merge to form a single, horseshoe-shaped cavity, the intraembryonic coelom. The coelom is initially continuous with the extraembryonic coelom but becomes separated as the embryo folds.

Function[edit | edit source]

The intraembryonic coelom serves as the primordium for the major body cavities. It divides the lateral plate mesoderm into two layers: the somatic (parietal) mesoderm and the splanchnic (visceral) mesoderm. The somatic mesoderm lines the body wall, while the splanchnic mesoderm surrounds the gut tube. The coelom also provides a space for the developing organs to grow and move.

Clinical Significance[edit | edit source]

Abnormalities in the formation of the intraembryonic coelom can lead to a variety of congenital defects. These include diaphragmatic hernia, congenital heart defects, and abnormalities in the formation of the lungs and abdominal organs.

See Also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Intraembryonic coelom Resources
Doctor showing form.jpg
Wiki.png

Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index‏‎ - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes

Search WikiMD


Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD

WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.

Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.


Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD