Mesoderm (Gr. Mesos—Middle, Dermis—Skin)

Mesoderm (from the Greek words "mesos" - middle and "derma" - skin) is one of the three primary germ layers, which is located between the ectoderm (outer layer from which the skin, nervous system and sensory organs develop) and endoderm (inner layer , from which the gastrointestinal tract, respiratory and excretory systems are formed).

The mesoderm plays an important role in the development of the embryo and the formation of the organism. It gives rise to many tissues and organs, such as muscles, bone and cartilage tissue, circulatory and lymphatic systems, kidneys, genitals, heart, etc.

The process of mesoderm formation begins in the early stages of embryonic development, when the embryo is divided into three layers. The mesoderm comes from the middle part of the embryo, which in the process of further development turns into specialized cells that form various tissues and organs.

One of the important functions of the mesoderm is the formation of the muscular system and osteochondral tissue. Mesodermal cells divide and differentiate into myoblasts, the precursors of skeletal muscle tissue, as well as chondrocytes and osteoblasts, which form bone and cartilage tissue.

In addition, the mesoderm plays an important role in the development of the circulatory and lymphatic systems. Hematopoietic stem cells are formed from mesodermal cells, which then differentiate into red and white blood cells, platelets, etc. This makes it possible to create the circulatory system necessary to maintain the vital functions of the body.

The mesoderm also forms the genitals and kidneys, which perform important functions in the body. The kidneys play a role in removing waste and regulating water-salt balance, and the genitals play a role in reproduction.

In conclusion, the mesoderm is an important germ layer that plays a key role in the development of the organism. It gives rise to many tissues and organs necessary for the functioning of the body. Understanding the processes involved in mesoderm development helps in the development of new treatments for various diseases.