The first of four extra-embryonic membranes to form during EMBRYOGENESIS. In REPTILES and BIRDS, it arises from endoderm and mesoderm to incorporate the EGG YOLK into the DIGESTIVE TRACT for nourishing the embryo. In placental MAMMALS, its nutritional function is vestigial; however, it is the source of INTESTINAL MUCOSA; BLOOD CELLS; and GERM CELLS. It is sometimes called the vitelline sac, which should not be confused with the VITELLINE MEMBRANE of the egg.

DUI

D015017 MeSH Browser

CUI

M0023107

Previous indexing

Chick Embryo (1966-1972); Fetal Membranes (1966-1972); Vitelline Membrane (1966-1974)

History note

78; was see VITELLINE MEMBRANE 1973-77

Online note

search VITELLINE MEMBRANE 1973-77

Public note

78; was see VITELLINE MEMBRANE 1973-77