ectoderm
/ˈɛktəˌdɜrm/
noun
- The outermost layer of cells in an embryo, which develops into the skin, nervous system, and other outer tissues.
- Scientists study how the ectoderm gives rise to nerve cells.
- Damage to the ectoderm early in development can affect the spinal cord.
- The ectoderm forms the skin and brain of the developing baby.