pintaektodermiin

Pintaektodermiin is the Estonian term for the surface ectoderm, the outermost germ layer of the early embryo. It lies on the exterior of the embryo and gives rise to a broad set of epithelial tissues that form the body's external surfaces and some specialized structures. Alongside the neuroectoderm, the surface ectoderm participates in the complex patterning of the ectodermal layer during development.

Key derivatives of the surface ectoderm include the epidermis and its appendages—hair, nails, and sweat and sebaceous glands—as well as the epithelium of the oral and nasal cavities. It also gives rise to the enamel organ of teeth, which forms the enamel of the teeth. The eye also relies on surface ectoderm-derived structures, notably the lens and the corneal epithelium, and associated glands such as the lacrimal glands. The external auditory canal develops from surface ectoderm within the first pharyngeal region. The anterior pituitary (adenohypophysis) originates from Rathke’s pouch, an outgrowth of stomodeal surface ectoderm.

Additionally, several placodes formed from the surface ectoderm contribute to sensory epithelia, including parts of the olfactory system. Overall, the pintaektodermiin plays a central role in forming the skin and many external and sensory epithelia, while neural ectoderm forms the central and peripheral nervous systems.