MESONEPHRIC DUCT Meaning and
Definition
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The mesonephric duct, also known as the Wolffian duct, is a vital structure in the development of the urinary and reproductive systems in embryos. It refers to a bilateral tubular structure that forms during early embryonic development, and is derived from a portion of the intermediate mesoderm.
In males, the mesonephric duct plays a fundamental role in establishing the male reproductive system. It serves as a conduit for the transport of sperm from the testes to the urethra and eventually to the external genitalia. During later stages of development, the mesonephric duct develops into various male reproductive organs, including the epididymis, vas deferens, seminal vesicles, and ejaculatory ducts.
In females, the mesonephric duct regresses and eventually disappears, giving way to the development of the female reproductive system. This occurs as a result of the formation of a different structure known as the Müllerian duct. The regression of the mesonephric duct in females is primarily under the influence of anti-Müllerian hormone.
Understanding the function and development of the mesonephric duct is crucial in the fields of embryology, urology, and reproductive medicine. The proper development and regression patterns of the mesonephric duct contribute to the formation of viable male and female reproductive systems. Any disruptions or malformations of this duct can lead to various congenital anomalies, causing infertility or other reproductive malfunctions.
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A duct in the embryo developing, in the male, into the vas deferens.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for MESONEPHRIC DUCT
- nesonephric duct
- kesonephric duct
- jesonephric duct
- mwsonephric duct
- mssonephric duct
- mdsonephric duct
- mrsonephric duct
- m4sonephric duct
- m3sonephric duct
- meaonephric duct
- mezonephric duct
- mexonephric duct
- medonephric duct
- meeonephric duct
- mewonephric duct
- mesinephric duct
- mesknephric duct
- meslnephric duct
- mespnephric duct
- mes0nephric duct
Etymology of MESONEPHRIC DUCT
The word "mesonephric" comes from the combination of two Greek roots: "meso-" meaning "middle" and "nephros" meaning "kidney". The term "duct" comes from the Latin word "ductus", meaning "a leading or conveying". So, the etymology of "mesonephric duct" reflects its function as a tube or conduit that connects or leads the middle kidney, which is a component of the early urinary system during embryo development.
