<big><center>[[Developmental Biology - Anatomy & Physiology|'''BACK TO DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY]]</center></big>
<big><center>[[Developmental Biology - Anatomy & Physiology|'''BACK TO DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY]]</center></big>
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==Introduction==
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In the verterbrate embryo, as the neural tube is forming the '''paraxial mesoderm''' divides into blocks of cells called '''somites'''. These divisions can be seen either side of the neural tube. Somites are transient structures that will give rise to cells of the vertebrae and ribs, dermis of the dorsum, skeletal muscle of the body wall, back and limbs.