OMPHALOCHORION Meaning and
Definition
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Omphalochorion refers to an anatomical structure found in certain egg-laying animals, particularly in reptiles and birds. Derived from the Greek words "omphalos," meaning navel, and "chorion," referring to the membrane surrounding developing embryos, omphalochorion essentially serves as a protective envelope enclosing the developing fetus within the egg.
Within the continuum of eggshell structures, omphalochorion is considered an advanced form. It consists of two layers, an inner amnion and an outer chorion. The amnion is a thin, transparent membrane that directly envelops the fetus, providing cushioning and additional protection. The chorion, on the other hand, is a tougher, more resilient layer that encloses both the amnion and yolk sac, preventing damage to the embryo from external factors.
The role of omphalochorion extends beyond mere protection. It facilitates the exchange of gases, allowing oxygen to enter and carbon dioxide to exit the developing embryo. Additionally, waste products are expelled through the omphalochorion, contributing to the maintenance of a suitable environment for embryonic development. As the embryo grows, the omphalochorion must stretch to accommodate its size, ensuring proper growth and development until the hatching stage.
Understanding the structure and function of the omphalochorion is crucial not only for comprehending the processes involved in embryonic development in reptiles and birds but also for further research on the evolutionary adaptations and reproductive strategies of these organisms.
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Fusion of the yolk-sac and the chorion to form one structure.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for OMPHALOCHORION
Etymology of OMPHALOCHORION
The word "omphalochorion" is derived from two Greek terms: "omphalos" and "chorion".
"Omphalos" (ὀμφαλός) in Greek means "navel" or "belly button". It is often used in a symbolic sense to refer to the center or focal point of something.
"Chorion" (χορίον) means "membrane" or "skin" in Greek. In the biological context, it specifically refers to the outermost membrane surrounding an embryo or developing organism.
Therefore, "omphalochorion" combines these two terms to describe the membranous structure that surrounds the navel or umbilical cord area of an embryo or fetus.
