Three-dimensional reconstructions of human embryos: Morphogenesis and hepatic vascularization

International audienceOBJECTIVESThe purpose of this study was to describe the morphogenesis of hepatic gland and its vascularization in 4 human embryos using three-dimensional reconstructions from histological sections, and to compare our results with literature.MATERIALS AND METHODSWe investigated four embryos belonging to three prestigious historical French collections of human embryos serially sectioned: 7 mm (Carnegie Stage 14), 15 mm (CS 18), 22.5 mm (CS 21) and 27 mm (CS 23) respectively.Staining included either Masson’s trichrome or standard HES. Scanning was performed using an Epson V750 PRO ®, (resolution 3200 dpi). Registration of image stacks and export in DICOM files were performed using original software developed by IADI Laboratory (INSERM U947, NANCY). The images obtained were exploited with ORS ® Visual.RESULTSFrom the 7mm embryo to 27mm, the hepatic gland was very large and filled almost the entire abdominal cavity. The hepatic vascularization was well visualized and individualized. The portal vein and hepatic veins were distinct from the 15mm embryo to subsequent stages.CONCLUSIONThis method of three-dimensional reconstructions of hepatic morphogenesis brings a new perspective to the study of human embryology