Mesoderm

The mesoderm, also called the mesoblast, is the intermediary embryonic layer between the external layer (ectoderm) and the internal layer (endoderm). The cells in this layer give rise to a large number of the organs.

Mesoderm cells form the somites (which produce the vertebrae, trunk and limb muscles, and the dermis), the gonads and kidneys, some of the circulatory system, and bones of the trunk and limbs.