Which organ system is the first to become operational during embryonic development?
Solution
Correct Answer: Option B
- The cardiovascular system is the first organ system to become operational during embryonic development.
- This is because the developing embryo requires an efficient means of transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste products even at very early stages.
- The heart begins to form and beat as early as around 3 weeks of gestation, establishing a primitive circulatory system that supports rapid growth and differentiation of embryonic tissues.
- In contrast, the nervous system starts developing shortly after, but it does not become fully operational as a functional system as early as the cardiovascular system.
- The musculoskeletal system and respiratory system develop later in gestation and only become functional closer to or after birth.
Thus, the early functionality of the cardiovascular system is essential for sustaining life during the critical stages of embryonic growth.
Reference: Langman's Medical Embryology, 13th Edition, Chapter 5: Cardiovascular Development
- This is because the developing embryo requires an efficient means of transporting oxygen, nutrients, and waste products even at very early stages.
- The heart begins to form and beat as early as around 3 weeks of gestation, establishing a primitive circulatory system that supports rapid growth and differentiation of embryonic tissues.
- In contrast, the nervous system starts developing shortly after, but it does not become fully operational as a functional system as early as the cardiovascular system.
- The musculoskeletal system and respiratory system develop later in gestation and only become functional closer to or after birth.
Thus, the early functionality of the cardiovascular system is essential for sustaining life during the critical stages of embryonic growth.
Reference: Langman's Medical Embryology, 13th Edition, Chapter 5: Cardiovascular Development
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