The image is a three-dimensional depiction of a mouse kidney on the 16th day of a mouse embryo. The part in green that forms the body of the kidney is the protein of an unspecialised embryonic connective tissue that will ultimately differentiate. The red part in the centre acts as the collecting duct system that when fully developed, will funnel excreted urine into the ureter. It is amazing how an organ with such a simple structure plays such an essential role in maintaining life. For more information on the functions of a kidney, click here.
Developing mouse kidney—Bob Kao and Kieran Short/Wellcome Images
