Developing Inside a Layer of Germs—A Potential Role for Multiciliated Surface Cells in Vertebrate Embryos

This paper reviews current research on the microbial life that surrounds vertebrate embryos. Several clades are believed to develop inside sterile—or near-sterile—embryonic microhabitats, while others thrive within a veritable zoo of life. The occurrence embryo-associated microbes in some groups, but not others, is an under-appreciated transition (possibly transitions) evolution. A lack comparable studies makes it currently impossible correlate microbiomes with other aspects However, there embryonic features should instruct more targeted survey. concludes hypothesis for role multiciliated surface cells amphibian and fish embryos, which may contribute managing consortia. These known exist species harbor ovo or have relatively porous egg capsules, although most been assayed microbiota. Whether currents generated these extraembryonic microhabitats culturing consistent communities remains be seen.