WORKSHOP IN HISTOLOGY, CYTOLOGY AND EMBRYOLOGY - 2016

Chapter 5. SPECIAL HISTOLOGY

Digestive System

Slide 100. Tooth development (formation of the enamel organ).

Staining: hematoxylin and eosin.

Magnification: x80.

Examine the slide under low magnification. Locate the stratified embryonic epithelium (1), underneath which lies the mesenchyme (embryonic Connective Tissue) (2), and deeper still, bone trabeculae. The latter appear as pink-colored islands (3) surrounded by Cells with large nuclei, known as osteoblasts. Extending from the epithelium deep into the connective tissue is a cord of cells terminating in a double-walled expansion—the enamel, or dental organ (4). It has a goblet-like shape. Its edges deeply penetrate the mesenchyme, thereby outlining the shape of the future tooth crown. The convex side of the enamel organ contains outer flat epitheliocytes (5), while the inner side contains tall inner enamel epitheliocytes (6), which are the future ameloblasts. Between these layers, the enamel pulp (7) is formed, consisting of stellate-shaped cells (stellate reticulum).

Beneath the enamel organ, a Condensation of mesenchyme is visible—the dental papilla (8). The compacted mesenchyme surrounding the dental organ on all sides is termed the dental sac (9).

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Slide 100. Tooth development (Formation of the enamel organ).



Last update: 07/08/2026

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