Notochord: The notochord (axial mesoderm

The notochord (axial mesoderm, notochordal process, chorda dorsalis, Wirbelsäule) is the defining structure forming in all chordate embryos (taxonomic rank: phylum Chordata). It is an early forming midline structure in the trilaminar embryo mesoderm layer initially ventral to the ectoderm, then neural plate and finally neural tube. This is a transient embryonic anatomy structure, not existing in the adult, required for patterning the surrounding tissues. The patterning signal secreted by ... What is the notochord ? The notochord is the defining structure of the phylum Chordata, which includes all vertebrates. In its ‘mature’ state the notochord is a rod of large cells constrained by a thick extracellular sheath and positioned between the developing spinal cord and gut. Turgor pressure generated by notochord cells exerted against the sheath gives the notochord stiffness, imparting the mechanical properties required for one of its main functions as the central axial skeletal ... The notochord is an embryonic midline structure common to all members of the phylum Chordata, providing both mechanical and signaling cues to the developing embryo. In vertebrates, the notochord ... The notochord is a flexible, rod-like structure seen in the embryos of all chordates. It provides all the necessary support and help in the development of the nervous system. In many animals, such as humans, the notochord is present only during the early stages of development and then gets replaced by the vertebral column (spine).