Cervix developes from:
A. Wolffian duct
B. Mesonephros
C. Mullerian duct
D. Metanephros
Correct Answer: C. Mullerian duct
Explanation :
Answer:
The cervix develops from the fused caudal portions of the paramesonephric (Müllerian) ducts.
Explanation (concise):
• The upper vagina, cervix, uterus, and fallopian tubes arise from the Müllerian ducts.
• The lower vagina arises from the urogenital sinus (sinovaginal bulbs), but the cervix does NOT—it is entirely from the Müllerian duct fusion region.
So: Cervix = Caudal fused Müllerian (paramesonephric) ducts.
Other Options Details:
Here are clear, concise descriptions of each option:
A. Wolffian duct (Mesonephric duct)
• A paired embryonic structure present in both males and females early in development.
• Develops into male reproductive ducts under the influence of testosterone.
Derivatives in males:
• Epididymis
• Vas (ductus) deferens
• Seminal vesicles
• Ejaculatory ducts
In females, it mostly degenerates due to lack of testosterone but may form remnants such as Gartner’s duct.
B. Mesonephros
• The second stage of kidney development in the embryo (after pronephros).
• Functions as a temporary kidney from the 4th to 10th week of gestation.
• Forms the mesonephric duct (Wolffian duct).
• In males, contributes to reproductive structures.
• In females, degenerates but may leave vestigial remnants.
C. Müllerian duct (Paramesonephric duct)
• Embryonic duct present in both sexes, but develops into female reproductive organs in the absence of Anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH).
Derivatives in females:
• Fallopian tubes
• Uterus
• Cervix
• Upper 1/3 of vagina
• In males, it regresses under AMH produced by Sertoli cells, leaving small remnants such as appendix testis.
D. Metanephros
• The permanent kidney that begins to develop at 5 weeks of gestation.
• Becomes functional by 10–13 weeks.
• Develops from:
• Ureteric bud → collecting duct system (collecting tubules, calyces, pelvis, ureter)
• Metanephric blastema → nephrons (glomerulus to distal convoluted tubule)
Summary Table
Structure Function / Fate
Wolffian duct Male reproductive ducts
Mesonephros Temporary embryonic kidney
Müllerian duct Female reproductive organs
Metanephros Permanent kidney
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Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group)