Embryonic Development of the Orbit

The embryonic and fetal development of the orbit comprises a series of sequential events, starting with the fertilization of the ovum and extending until birth. Most of the publications dealing with orbital morphogenesis describe the sequential development of each germinal layer, the ectoderm with its neuroectoderm derivative and the mesoderm. This approach provides a clear understanding of the mode of development of each layer but does not give the reader a general picture of the structure of the orbit within any specified time frame. In order to enhance our understanding of the developmental anatomy of the orbit, the authors have summarized the recent developments in orbital morphogenesis, a temporally precise and morphogenetically intricate process. Understanding this multidimensional process of development in prenatal life, identifying and linking signaling cascades, as well as the regulatory genes linked to existing diseases, may pave the way for advanced molecular diagnostic testing, developing minimally invasive interventions, and the use of progenitor/stem cell and even regenerative therapy.