endoblast
nounUK /ˈɛndəʊblæst/
US /ˈɛndoʊblæst/
A group of cells inside a very young animal embryo that grows into its inner body parts.
The endoblast later develops into the lining of the gut.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The innermost germ layer of an embryo, giving rise to the digestive tract and associated organs.
In triploblastic animals, the endoblast forms the epithelial lining of the digestive system.
3. A cell or layer of cells lining the interior of certain invertebrate structures.
The endoblast cells secrete the inner membrane of the cyst.
4. In older botanical usage, the inner layer of a developing seed or spore.
The endoblast of the seed was visible under the microscope.