endocardium morphogenesis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process in which the anatomical structure of the endocardium is generated and organized. The endocardium is an anatomical structure comprised of an endothelium and an extracellular matrix that forms the innermost layer of tissue of the heart, and lines the heart chambers. [GOC:mtg_heart]

Endocardium morphogenesis is a complex process that begins early in embryonic development and plays a crucial role in the formation of the heart. The endocardium, the inner lining of the heart, arises from a specialized population of cells called the cardiac mesoderm.

The process begins with the specification of the cardiac mesoderm, which is induced by signals from the underlying endoderm and the surrounding mesoderm. These signals activate transcription factors that promote the expression of genes involved in cardiac development.

The cardiac mesoderm then undergoes a series of coordinated cell movements, known as gastrulation, to form the heart tube. During this process, cells of the cardiac mesoderm migrate and differentiate, forming distinct layers of cells that will give rise to the endocardium, myocardium, and epicardium.

Once the heart tube is formed, the endocardium begins to develop from a single layer of epithelial cells lining the lumen of the tube. These cells proliferate and differentiate into specialized cell types, including endothelial cells, which form the lining of blood vessels, and mesenchymal cells, which contribute to the formation of the heart valves and other structures.

Endocardial cells also play a critical role in the development of the heart valves. These cells undergo an epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition (EMT), where they lose their epithelial characteristics and migrate into the lumen of the heart tube, forming the valve primordia. This process is regulated by signaling pathways involving transforming growth factor beta (TGF-β) and fibroblast growth factor (FGF).

Endocardium morphogenesis is tightly regulated by a complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors. Mutations in genes involved in this process can lead to congenital heart defects, which are the most common type of birth defect. Understanding the mechanisms of endocardium morphogenesis is crucial for developing new therapies for these conditions.'
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