3 Stages of Prenatal Development: Germinal Stage

During which stage of prenatal development does organogenesis occur?

What is the function of the placenta during prenatal development?

Which structure grows into the brain and spinal cord during prenatal development?

What is the significance of the amnion during prenatal development?

What process involves trimming of excessive cells in highly specific patterns during prenatal development?

During which stage of prenatal development does the growth slow down and the digestive and respiratory systems start working?

Which factor influences prenatal development by causing harm during the prenatal period?

What timing of exposure to teratogens is considered critical for the development of ears, eyes, and limbs?

What factor increases the risk of Down syndrome and low birth weight in offspring?

Which environmental factor can easily transfer across the placenta and result in miscarriage, preterm birth, and lower intelligence in offspring?

Stages of Prenatal Development

Organogenesis occurs during the embryonic stage, where vital organ systems begin to form.
In the fetal stage, growth slows down, and digestive and respiratory systems begin functioning.

Functions of the Placenta

The placenta acts as a nutritional and oxygen exchange organ for the developing fetus.
It also serves as a barrier, filtering out harmful substances but allowing essential nutrients and gases to pass through.

Neural Development

The neural tube grows into the brain and spinal cord during prenatal development, crucial for the central nervous system's formation.

Significance of the Amnion

The amnion is a membrane that provides a protective amniotic sac, cushioning the developing fetus and maintaining a stable temperature.

Cell Trimming Process

Apoptosis is the process that involves the trimming of excessive cells in highly specific patterns, essential for proper formation of body structures.

Teratogens and Developmental Risks

Teratogens are environmental factors that can harm prenatal development and include substances like drugs, alcohol, and certain infections.
The timing of exposure to teratogens is critical; exposure during weeks 3-8 is particularly harmful for the development of ears, eyes, and limbs.

Genetic and Environmental Influences

Advanced maternal age is a factor that can increase the risk of Down syndrome and low birth weight in offspring.
Substances such as alcohol can easily cross the placenta, potentially leading to miscarriage, preterm birth, and lower intelligence in subsequent offspring.

Test your knowledge about the major achievements and processes during the germinal stage of prenatal development, which includes rapid cell division, formation of blastocyst and trophoblast, implantation into the uterine wall, and the development of the amnion and placenta.