FORMATION OF THE VOMERONASAL SYSTEM IN EA RLY HUMAN EMBRYOS

We studied the origin and development of the vomeronasal system in ear ly human embryos of 10 - 18 mm crown-rump length under normal and path ological conditions. The formation of the vomeronasal organ from the v omeronasal groove and placode in a 10-mm embryo is described. We propo se that the vomeronasal cavity originates in the schizocoel way. We st udied the development of the vomeronasal and olfactory nerves. Attenti on is paid to the development of the nasolacrimal duct and the epithel ial plug. The possible use of the vomeronasal system by embryos during the first seven weeks of development is discussed.