Gonads develop from embryonic
A. Both mesoderm & endoderm
B. Endoderm
C. Mesoderm
D. Ectoderm
Correct Answer: C. Mesoderm
Explanation
Question: Gonads develop from embryonic ______ ?
Correct Answer
Gonads develop from the intermediate mesoderm.
Explanation
During embryonic development, the mesoderm differentiates into three parts:
- Paraxial mesoderm → forms somites (muscles, vertebrae, dermis)
- Intermediate mesoderm → forms the urogenital system
- Lateral plate mesoderm → forms body cavities, heart, blood vessels
Development of Gonads
- The gonads (testes and ovaries) arise from the genital (gonadal) ridge.
- The genital ridge develops from the intermediate mesoderm along the medial side of the mesonephros.
- Primordial germ cells migrate into this ridge, but the supporting tissue and structure come from the intermediate mesoderm.
Key Point to Remember (Exam-Oriented)
- Gonads → Intermediate mesoderm
- Urogenital system (kidneys, ureters, gonads) → Intermediate mesoderm
- Difference between germ cell origin vs gonadal origin
- A MCQ-based explanation for competitive exams
- A diagram-based explanation for quick revision
Other Options Details
These options refer to the embryonic germ layers from which different organs and tissues develop.
Here is a clear description of each option 👇
A. Both Mesoderm & Endoderm
- Some organs develop from both layers together.
- Examples:
- Gastrointestinal tract wall (muscle & connective tissue → mesoderm; lining epithelium → endoderm)
- Respiratory tract
- This option is chosen when a structure has epithelial lining from endoderm and supporting tissues from mesoderm.
B. Endoderm
- The innermost germ layer
- Gives rise mainly to epithelial linings and glands.
- Examples:
- Lining of gastrointestinal tract
- Lining of respiratory tract
- Liver, pancreas
- Thyroid, parathyroid
- Urinary bladder (epithelium)
C. Mesoderm
- The middle germ layer
- Forms supporting and structural tissues.
- Examples:
- Muscles (skeletal, cardiac, smooth)
- Bones and cartilage
- Heart and blood vessels
- Blood cells
- Kidneys and gonads
- Connective tissue
D. Ectoderm
- The outermost germ layer
- Gives rise to skin and nervous system.
- Examples:
- Epidermis of skin
- Hair, nails
- Brain and spinal cord
- Peripheral nerves
- Sensory organs (eye, ear)
- Enamel of teeth
✅ Quick Memory Tip
- Ectoderm → Outside & nerves
- Mesoderm → Movement & circulation
- Endoderm → Inside lining & glands
I hope that you liked this article.
Thanks!! 🙏 😊
Writer: Vandita Singh, Lucknow (GS India Nursing Group