Apical ectodermal ridge

Definition

The apical ectodermal ridge is a critical structure in embryonic development, consisting of a thickened area of ectoderm at the distal end of the limbs that plays a key role in directing limb growth. It signals underlying mesodermal tissue to grow and elongate, thereby shaping the eventual form of arms and legs.

Related terms

Limb bud: A structure in embryo that develops into an arm or leg, initiated by signaling from regions like the AER.

Mesenchyme: Embryonic connective tissue derived from mesoderm, responding to cues from structures like AER for differentiation into various tissues.

Morphogenesis: The biological process that causes an organism to develop its shape, wherein AER plays a vital role during limb formation