Pharyngeal arch
Pharyngeal Arch
The Pharyngeal Arch (pronounced: /fəˈrɪndʒiːəl ɑːrtʃ/) is a fundamental structure in the embryonic development of complex vertebrates, including humans.
Etymology
The term "Pharyngeal Arch" is derived from the Greek words "pharynx" which means throat and "arch" which means a curved structure.
Definition
The Pharyngeal Arch is a series of outpouchings of mesoderm on the lateral sides of the embryonic pharynx. They are responsible for the formation of many structures in the head and neck.
Development
In the human embryo, there are initially four pairs of pharyngeal arches that form during the fourth week of embryonic development. A fifth and sixth pair of arches also form but are not easily visible externally. Each arch consists of a core of mesoderm, which is covered externally by ectoderm and internally by endoderm.
Related Structures
Each Pharyngeal Arch gives rise to specific structures in the adult. For example, the first arch forms the maxilla and mandible, the second forms parts of the hyoid bone, the third forms the rest of the hyoid, the fourth forms the laryngeal cartilages, and the sixth forms the cricoid cartilage.
Related Terms
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Pharyngeal arch
- Wikipedia's article - Pharyngeal arch
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