noun
- Plural of endoderm; the innermost of the three primary germ layers of an embryo, which gives rise to the digestive tract, respiratory system, and related organs.
Usage: biology; embryology; technical
Examples
- During early embryonic development, the endoderms form the lining of the digestive system.
- The endoderms differentiate into various tissues including the liver, pancreas, and lungs.
- In comparative embryology, scientists study how endoderms develop across different species.
- The endoderms are responsible for forming the epithelial lining of the gastrointestinal tract.
- Mutations affecting endoderms can lead to developmental abnormalities in organ formation.