CHORDA VERTEBRALIS Meaning and
Definition
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Chorda vertebralis, also known as the notochord, is a structure located in the developing embryos of vertebrate animals. It is a flexible, rod-like structure that runs longitudinally along the midline of the body. The notochord is considered to be one of the defining characteristics of chordates, a group of animals that includes fish, amphibians, reptiles, birds, and mammals.
In early embryonic development, the chorda vertebralis serves as the primary axial support structure, providing stiffness and helping to maintain the shape of the embryo. It plays a vital role in shaping the body plan and serves as a template for the formation of the vertebral column. However, in most vertebrates, the notochord is eventually replaced by the development of the vertebrae, which form the bony spinal column.
The chorda vertebralis is composed of cells known as notochordal cells, which secrete a gelatinous substance called notochordal matrix. This matrix provides structural support and flexibility to the notochord. It also acts as a signaling center, influencing the formation and patterning of surrounding tissues and organs during embryonic development.
Although the chorda vertebralis is typically only present during embryogenesis, remnants of the notochord can occasionally persist into adulthood in some animals. In certain medical conditions, such as chordoma, abnormal growths can arise from persistent notochordal remnants, causing tumors that primarily affect the spine.
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A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for CHORDA VERTEBRALIS
- choardavertebralis
- choredavertebralis
- c horda vertebralis
- ch orda vertebralis
- cho rda vertebralis
- chor da vertebralis
- chord a vertebralis
- chorda v ertebralis
- chorda ve rtebralis
- chorda ver tebralis
- chorda vert ebralis
- chorda verte bralis
- chorda verteb ralis
- chorda vertebr alis
- chorda vertebra lis
- chorda vertebral is
- chorda vertebrali s
Etymology of CHORDA VERTEBRALIS
The word "chorda vertebralis" is Latin in origin.
"Chorda" comes from the Latin word "chorda" meaning "cord" or "string". In this context, it refers to a long, flexible structure resembling a cord.
"Vertebralis" is derived from the Latin word "vertebra" meaning "joint" or "spinal joint". It is a noun form that is used to describe anything related to the vertebrae, such as the spinal column.
When combined, "chorda vertebralis" refers specifically to the embryonic structure known as the notochord, which is the precursor to the vertebral column (spine) in vertebrate animals.
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