Embryology, comparative anatomy, and congenital malformations of the gastrointestinal tract

Melinda Danowitz ； Nikos Solounias

《Edorium Journal of Anatomy and Embryology》 3期 (2016/01) Pp. 39-50

https://doi.org/10.5348/A04-2016-14-RA-6

摘要

Evolutionary biology gives context to human embryonic digestive organs, and demonstrates how structural adaptations can fit changing environmental requirements. Comparative anatomy is rarely included in the medical school curriculum. However, its concepts facilitate a deeper comprehension of anatomy and development by putting the morphology into an evolutionary perspective. Features of gastrointestinal development reflect the transition from aquatic to terrestrial environments, such as the elongation of the colon in land vertebrates, allowing for better water reabsorption. In addition, fishes exhibit ciliary transport in the esophagus, which facilitates particle transport in water, whereas land mammals develop striated and smooth esophageal musculature and utilize peristaltic muscle contractions, allowing for better voluntary control of swallowing. The development of an extensive vitelline drainage system to the liver, which ultimately creates the adult hepatic portal system allows for the evolution of complex hepatic metabolic functions seen in many vertebrates today. Human digestive development is an essential topic for medical students and physicians, and many common congenital abnormalities directly relate to gastrointestinal embryology. We believe this comprehensive review of gastrointestinal embryology and comparative anatomy will facilitate a better understanding of gut development, congenital abnormalities, and adaptations to various evolutionary ecological conditions.

關鍵字

Anatomy education ； Digestive ； Embryology ； Gastrointestinal tract