Yolk Sac, Vitelline Sac

The yolk sac is an extraembryonic organ - a sac formed by a layer of mesoderm lined with endoderm. It is located near the umbilical region of the developing embryo. At first, the Yolk Sac is closely connected with the embryonic intestine, but over time this connection is preserved only in the form of a narrow yolk stalk.

In the early stages of embryonic development, the Yolk Sac takes part in the nutrition and respiration of the embryo. Until the 7-8th week it functions as a hematopoietic organ. Primary germ cells are formed in the wall of the Yolk Sac, which then migrate from it with the blood into the rudiments of the gonads.



The yolk sac (or vitellin) is an extraembryonic organ that is formed from the mesoderm layer and is lined with endodermal tissue. It is located near the embryo's umbilical region and is closely associated with the intestines of the embryo in the early stages of development.

Initially, the yolk sac performs the function of nutrition and respiration for the developing embryo. However, over time, the connection between it and the intestines weakens, and the yolk sac begins to perform a hematopoietic function. Primary germ cells are formed in its wall, which then migrate to the rudiments of the genital organs.

The yolk sac is an important organ in the development of the embryo, as it provides nutrition and respiration, and also participates in hematopoiesis and the formation of primary germ cells.



Yolk Sac (Yolk Sac, Vitelline Sac): Significance and role in embryonic development

The Yolk Sac, also known as Vitelline Sac, is an extraembryonic organ that plays an important role in embryonic development. It is formed by a layer of mesoderm lined by endoderm and is located near the umbilical region of the embryo. At the beginning of its development, the yolk sac is closely connected with the embryonic intestine, but over time this connection is preserved only in the form of a narrow yolk stalk.

In the early stages of embryonic development, the yolk sac performs several important functions. One of them is related to the nutrition of the embryo. Inside the Yolk Sac is the yolk, which contains nutrients necessary for the growth and development of the embryo. The yolk enters the embryonic body through the umbilical canal, providing nutrition until the placenta is formed.

In addition, the yolk sac is involved in the process of embryonic respiration. It carries out gas exchange with the environment, ensuring the supply of oxygen and the removal of carbon dioxide. At this early stage of embryonic development, the lungs are not yet functioning, and the yolk sac serves as an important organ for the exchange of gases.

It is important to note that until the 7-8th week of pregnancy, the yolk sac also functions as a hematopoietic organ. In its walls, the formation of primary germ cells occurs, which then migrate with the blood into the primordia of the gonads of the embryo. This process plays a significant role in the development of the reproductive system.

After a certain period of development, as the placenta forms, the role of the Yolk Sac gradually decreases and it loses its significance. However, its early functions related to nutrition, respiration and hematopoiesis are important for the normal development of the embryo.

In conclusion, the Yolk Sac (Viteline Sac) is an extraembryonic organ of key importance in early embryonic development. It provides nutrition, respiration and hematopoiesis to the embryo until the placenta is formed. Understanding the role of the Yolk Sac helps us better understand the complex processes of embryonic development and its importance for the health of the unborn child.