title: Morphogenetic functions of extraembryonic membranes in insects.
abstract: Morphogenetic functions of the amnioserosa, the serosa, the amnion, and the yolk sac are reviewed on the basis of recent studies in flies (Drosophila, Megaselia), beetles (Tribolium), and hemipteran bugs (Oncopeltus). Three hypotheses are presented. First, it is suggested that the amnioserosa of Drosophila and the dorsal amnion of other fly species function in a similar manner. Second, it is proposed that in many species with an amniotic cavity, the amnion determines the site of serosa rupture, which, through interactions between the serosa and the amnion, enables the embryo to break free from the amniotic cavity and to close its backside. Finally, it is concluded that the yolk sac is likely an important player in insect morphogenesis.
authors.affiliation: University of Chicago, Dept. of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, Cummings Life Science Center, 920 East 58th Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA. Electronic address: uschmid@uchicago.edu.
authors.forename: Urs
authors.initials: U
authors.lastname: Schmidt-Ott
authors.affiliation: University of Chicago, Dept. of Organismal Biology and Anatomy, Cummings Life Science Center, 920 East 58th Street, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
authors.forename: Chun Wai
authors.initials: CW
authors.lastname: Kwan
mesh_terms: D000650:Amnion / Q000378:metabolism; D000818:Animals; D004625:Embryo, Nonmammalian; D005321:Extraembryonic Membranes / Q000378:metabolism; D007313:Insecta / Q000033:anatomy & histology / Q000196:embryology*; D009024:Morphogenesis / Q000502:physiology*; D012704:Serous Membrane / Q000378:metabolism; D015017:Yolk Sac / Q000378:metabolism