Abstract
Publisher Summary This chapter discusses the epithelial-stromal interactions in development of the urogenital tract. The hormonal influences on urogenital morphogenesis, differentiation, and function are discussed. The hormone-dependent development of the urogenital tract occurs via an interaction between epithelium and stroma in which the stroma plays a decisive role in mediating the unique morphological response of epithelium to sex hormones by inducing specific patterns of epithelial morphogenesis. Through stromal induction, which has been demonstrated during pre and postnatal periods and even into adulthood, the developmental fate of the epithelium is usually determined during fetal or early neonatal periods. However, once determined, urogenital epithelia continue to require a relatively specific interaction with urogenital stroma for full expression of morphogenesis, cytodifferentiation, and function. The developmental properties of epithelium and stroma, which vary temporally, account for changes in hormonal responsiveness of the intact target organs. Thus the developmental responses of urogenital organs to sex hormones are not strictly epithelial phenomena, but are interactive processes dependent on both the epithelium and stroma.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
