23 - Extra-embryonic membranes and placentation Flashcards
What is implantation/attachment
Joining of the extra-embryonic membranes to the uterine endometrium
What is placentation
organization and physical relationship of embryonic/fetal membranes to the uterine endometrium that provides a site of metabolic exchange between the dam and embryo/fetus
What is the placenta
Temporary organ of metabolic exchange between the embryo/fetus and the dam consisting of tissues of embryonic origin and maternal origin
Four steps in pre-attachment embryonic development**
- Development within the zona pellucida
- Hatching from the zona pellucida
- Maternal recognition of pregnancy
- Extra-embryonic membranes (preparation for placentation & attachment to endometrium)
How does development of extra-embryonic membranes occur
Following hatching, an “explosion” of embryonic tissue growth occurs to establish the extra-embryonic membranes prior to attachment
Slide 7 length in cattle, pigs
Formation of extra-embryonic membranes is necessary to…
allow the developing embryo to attach to the uterus
Name the extra-embryonic membranes
- yolk sac
- chorion
- amnion
- allantois
Three embryonic germ layers
Endoderm, mesoderm, ectoderm
What is the yolk sac*
“Transient” membrane that regresses as the conceptus develops. Formed from the primitive endoderm of the embryo. Contributes primordial germ cells & early RBC
What is the chorion*
Outermost membrane that develops villi (chorionic villi) which attach to the endometrium to form fetal sites of placental attachment. Formed from the trophoblast (ectoderm), primitive endoderm & mesoderm of the enmbryo.
What is the amnion*
Liquid filled membrane enclosing the fetus that serves to protect the embryo against mechanical damage and prevent tissue adhesions. Formed from the trophoblast (ectoderm), primitive endoderm & mesoderm of the embryo
What is the allantois*
Membrane that encloses a liquid waste storage reservoir for the developing embryo/fetus. Formed from the primitive gut of the developing embryo.
First steps in extra-embryonic membrane development (3)
ICM starts to differentiate
Primitive endoderm begins to form beneath the ICM & grows downward forming a lining on the inner surface of the trophoblast
Mesoderm begins to develop between the primitive endoderm and the embryo
Second steps in development of EE membranes
Yolk sac is formed once the primitive endoderm has completed its growth
Trophoblast is now referred to as the trophectoderm
Mesoderm continues to grow and extend away from the embryo between the trophectoderm and primitive endoderm of the newly formed yolk sac
Slides 10-16
Development of EE membranes, very long/complicated
Origin and function of the amnionic fluid
Origin: maternal circulation, secretions from fetal respiratory tract
Functions:
- protect fetus from mechanical damage
- prevents adhesions
- lubricates birth passage during parturition