ectodermaal

Ectoderm is one of the three primary germ layers that form during early embryonic development, along with mesoderm and endoderm. It is the outermost layer. The word "ectoderm" comes from the Greek words "ektos" meaning outside and "derma" meaning skin. During gastrulation, a process that establishes the three germ layers, the ectoderm is formed from cells of the epiblast. This layer gives rise to a wide variety of tissues and organs. Primarily, the ectoderm develops into the epidermis, the outermost layer of the skin, including hair, nails, and glands. It also forms the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, and peripheral nerves, as well as sensory organs like the eyes and ears. Specialized ectodermal cells also contribute to the formation of the pituitary gland and the enamel of teeth. The differentiation of ectodermal cells into these diverse structures is a highly regulated process involving complex signaling pathways.