The structure which helps in the nutrition of the Embryo is-a)Yolk sa...
The yolk sac is a membranous sac attached to an embryo, providing early nourishment. It functions as the developmental circulatory system of the human embryo before internal circulation begins. It carries out the transfer of nutrients in weeks 2 and 3 when the uteroplacental circulation is established.
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The structure which helps in the nutrition of the Embryo is-a)Yolk sa...
The yolk sac is the structure that helps in the nutrition of the embryo.
The yolk sac is an important structure that provides nutrients to the developing embryo in many animals, including humans. It plays a vital role in early embryonic development and is eventually replaced by the placenta in mammals.
Function of the Yolk Sac:
The yolk sac serves several important functions during embryonic development:
1. Nutrient Storage: The yolk sac contains yolk, a rich source of nutrients such as proteins, lipids, and vitamins. These nutrients are essential for the early development of the embryo before it can obtain nutrients from the mother through the placenta.
2. Transport of Nutrients: The yolk sac absorbs and transports nutrients from the yolk to the developing embryo. It acts as a conduit, delivering essential nutrients to support the growth and development of the embryo.
3. Blood Cell Formation: In early embryonic stages, the yolk sac is responsible for the production of blood cells. It contains specialized cells called blood islands that give rise to the primitive red blood cells and some white blood cells.
4. Waste Removal: The yolk sac also helps in the removal of waste products generated by the developing embryo. It ensures the elimination of metabolic waste, maintaining a suitable environment for the embryo's growth.
Development and Replacement:
During early embryonic development, the yolk sac is formed from the endoderm, one of the primary germ layers. As the embryo develops, other structures, such as the amnion and chorion, also form and play important roles in supporting the developing embryo.
Eventually, in mammals, the yolk sac is replaced by the placenta as the primary source of nutrition for the embryo. The placenta is a highly specialized organ that develops during gestation and allows the exchange of nutrients, oxygen, and waste products between the mother and the developing fetus.
In summary, the yolk sac is a crucial structure that provides nutrients, transports essential substances, produces blood cells, and aids in waste removal during early embryonic development. It is eventually replaced by the placenta in mammals, which takes over the role of providing nutrition to the developing embryo.