noun
- the outer layer of cells in an early embryo that gives rise to the ectoderm and other tissues during development
Usage: biology; embryology; technical
Examples
- The epiblast is one of the primary germ layers formed during gastrulation.
- Cells from the epiblast migrate inward to form the mesoderm and endoderm.
- During early development, the epiblast differentiates into various tissue types.
- The epiblast gives rise to the nervous system and skin in vertebrate embryos.
- Researchers study the epiblast to understand how embryonic tissues are specified.