Amnion and allantois are extra-embryonic membranes essential for early embryonic development. The amnion forms a protective fluid-filled cavity around the embryo, while the allantois is involved in waste management and umbilical cord formation. This guide explains their structure, functions, differences, and NEET-oriented embryology concepts.
This Story also Contains
The amnion is a very thin membrane covering the embryo. It forms a cavity filled with amniotic fluid. This fluid performs many vital functions, such as cushioning against shocks to the embryo and providing constant temperature conditions.
The allantois is a sac-like, routinely developed structure from the embryonic gut. It contributes to a vital part of the waste management system and gas exchange in the early period of development. The allantois contributes to the umbilical cord.
The developmental origin of amnion and allantois is discussed below:
The amnion originates a few days after fertilisation.
It covers and encapsulates the embryo from all sides.
Develops early in embryogenesis.
Develops during gastrulation.
Arises as an outgrowth of the embryonic gut.
Appears slightly later than amnion.
Key difference between amnion and allantois is discussed in the table below:
| Feature | Amnion | Allantois |
|---|---|---|
Structure | Thin, protective membrane | Sac-like structure |
Location | Surrounds embryo | Extends from embryonic gut |
Function | Protects the embryo and contains amniotic fluid | Manages waste and contributes to umbilical cord |
Development | Forms early in embryonic development | Develops from the embryonic gut |
Role in Nutrition | Does not provide nutrition | Does not provide nutrition directly |
Contribution to Placenta | Does not contribute directly | Plays a role in the formation of the placenta |
The details are given below:
Amnion
Mechanical protection
Prevents dehydration
Allows free movement of embryo
Allantois
Temporary waste storage
Helps in respiratory exchange
Structural contribution to umbilical cord
Important questions asked in NEET from this topic are:
Developmental origin of allantois and amnion
Amnion vs Allantois
Q1. Corpus luteum secretes a hormone called
Prolactin
Progesterone
Aldosterone
Testosterone
Correct answer: (2) Progesterone.
Explanation:
The hormone estrogen is released into the bloodstream by follicular cells, which function as endocrine cells. Conical, yellowish cells called corpus luteum, which degenerate into corpus albicans, are another component of the ovary's cortex.
Progesterone, estrogen, and relaxin are secreted by the corpus luteum, which also serves as an endocrine cell. The Corpus luteum functions as endocrine cells and secretes progesterone, estradiol, and relaxin.
Hence, the correct answer is the option (2) Progesterone.
Q2. Which of the following is primary sex organs in females?
Uterus
Vagina
Ovary
Mammary glands
Correct answer: (3) Ovary
Explanation:
The female reproductive system consists of a pair of ovaries along with a pair of oviducts, uterus, cervix, vagina, and external genitalia located in the pelvic region. These parts of the system along with a pair of mammary glands are integrated structurally and functionally to support the processes of ovulation, fertilization, pregnancy, birth, and child care.
Ovaries are the primary female sex organs that produce the female gamete (ovum) and several steroid hormones (ovarian hormones). The ovaries are located on each side of the lower abdomen.
Hence, the correct answer is option (3) Ovary.
Q3. Select correct option for female primary sex organ
Ovary are organs that produce the female gamete (ovum) and several ovarian hormones (ovarian hormones)
Ovary are organs that produce female gamete (ovum) only
Ovary are organs that produce steroidal hormones only
None of these
Correct answer: 1) ovaries are organs that produce the female gamete (ovum) and several ovarian hormones (ovarian hormones)
Explanation:
Ovaries are the primary female sex The ovaries are organs that produce the female gamete (ovum) and several steroid hormones (ovarian hormones), i.e., estrogen and progesterone. The Corpus luteum in the ovaries functions as endocrine cells and secretes progesterone, estradiol and relaxin.
Hence, the correct answer is option 1) ovaries are organs that produce the female gamete (ovum) and several ovarian hormones (ovarian hormones)
Also Read:
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
The allantois removes waste and leads to part of the umbilical cord.
No, the amnion appears first during development. The allantois develop from the embryonic gut.
Neither amnion nor allantois directly provides nutrition to the embryo.
It helps in realising their roles and also, therefore, the possible problems that might develop.
It protects and contains amniotic fluid that cushions the embryo.