tongue morphogenesis

Definition

Target type: biologicalprocess

The process in which the anatomical structures of the tongue are generated and organized. The tongue is the movable, muscular organ on the floor of the mouth of most vertebrates, in man other mammals is the principal organ of taste, aids in the prehension of food, in swallowing, and in modifying the voice as in speech. [GOC:jl, UBERON:0001723]

Tongue morphogenesis is a complex and highly regulated process that involves the coordinated interaction of multiple signaling pathways, transcription factors, and cellular processes. It begins during embryonic development and continues throughout postnatal life. Here is a detailed description of the key stages involved:

1. **Initiation and Outgrowth:** The tongue primordium emerges as a median swelling in the floor of the primitive oral cavity, formed by the fusion of two lateral lingual swellings. This process is influenced by various signaling molecules, including FGFs, BMPs, and Shh.

2. **Epithelial-Mesenchymal Interactions:** Epithelial cells lining the tongue primordium interact with underlying mesenchyme, which provides crucial cues for tongue development. These interactions involve reciprocal signaling between the two layers, leading to the formation of distinct tongue structures.

3. **Cranial Neural Crest Contribution:** Cranial neural crest cells, which migrate from the neural tube, contribute significantly to tongue development, specifically to the formation of muscle, cartilage, and connective tissues.

4. **Muscle Development:** Tongue muscles originate from the occipital somites, which are transient structures formed during early embryonic development. Muscle precursor cells migrate to the tongue primordium and differentiate into specific tongue muscles.

5. **Epithelial Differentiation:** The tongue epithelium undergoes differentiation into different types of cells, including stratified squamous epithelium for the dorsal surface, taste buds, and specialized epithelial cells for the tongue's sensory functions.

6. **Tongue Formation and Growth:** As the tongue primordium grows, it elongates and becomes more complex, forming distinct regions like the tip, body, and root. The formation of the lingual septum, which divides the tongue into two halves, also occurs during this stage.

7. **Postnatal Development:** The tongue continues to grow and develop throughout childhood and adolescence, with changes in size, shape, and function. The development of taste buds and the maturation of tongue muscles are key features of postnatal tongue development.

8. **Factors Influencing Tongue Morphogenesis:** Several factors influence tongue morphogenesis, including genetic predisposition, environmental influences, and nutritional status. Malformations of the tongue, such as ankyloglossia (tongue-tie), can occur due to disruptions in these processes.'
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