Early development of pleuroperitoneal fold of the diaphragm in the rat fetus
Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 19, 2026

Continuous Telemetric In Utero Tracheal Pressure Measurements in Fetal Lambs
Published on: December 22, 2023
Naoki Iwashita1, Motoharu Sakaue1, Mitsuyuki Shirai2
1Laboratory of Anatomy II, Azabu University, School of Veterinary Medicine, 1-17-71 Fuchinobe, Chuo, Sagamihara, Kanagawa 252-5201, Japan.
Abstract:
The embryonic diaphragm comprises four major structural components derived from the transverse septum, the dorsal foregut mesentery, the pleuroperitoneal folds (PPFs), and the body wall. In this study, the appearance of PPFs and related factors were investigated using light microscopy of horizontal sections of rat fetuses from embryonic day 12 to 13. In rat fetuses, the sign of PPF projection was noted in the sidewall of the pericardioperitoneal canal at embryonic day 12, and was confirmed as folds at embryonic day 12.25. Expressions of GATA4, COUP-TF2, and FOG2 were detected in PPF at the early stage of formation. Localizations of these factors suggested that COUP-TF2 and FOG2 are the main factors in PPF appearance and that GATA4 is unlikely to be a main factor, although it is necessary for PPF formation.
Related Concept Videos
Peritoneum
Anatomy of the Peritoneum
The peritoneum is divided into two layers: the parietal peritoneum and the visceral...
Development of the Heart
As the embryo undergoes lateral folding, these paired tubes approach each other, merging into a single primitive heart...
Gastrulation
Development of the Sexual Organs in the Embryo and Fetus
Near the gonadal ridges, two duct systems are present: the mesonephric ducts (Wolffian ducts) and paramesonephric ducts (Müllerian ducts). These ducts form the basis for the...
Development of the Lymphatic System
The first lymph sacs to form are the paired jugular lymph sacs located at the junction of the internal jugular and subclavian veins. From these sacs, lymphatic capillary plexuses extend to the thorax, upper limbs, neck, and head, eventually forming lymphatic vessels. Each jugular lymph sac maintains a...

