Which feature characterizes cells of the inner cell mass in a mammalian embryo?
A) Secrete fluid to form the blastocoel
B) Adhere to the endometrium
C) Eventually form the hypoblast and epiblast
D) Secrete enzymes to aid in implantation
E) Become distinct from the trophoblast at the eight-cell stage

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Cells of the inner cell mass in a mammalian embryo eventually form the hypoblast and epiblast, which differentiate into the embryonic disc that gives rise to the entire embryo.

Other options are not correct: 
A) Secrete fluid to form the blastocoel: This is a feature of cells in the blastula stage, not the inner cell mass. 
B) Adhere to the endometrium: This is a feature of the trophoblast, not the inner cell mass. 
D) Secrete enzymes to aid in implantation: This is a feature of the trophoblast, not the inner cell mass. 
E) Become distinct from the trophoblast at the eight-cell stage: This is true, but it does not specifically characterize cells of the inner cell mass.

Which Feature Characterizes Cells of the Inner Cell Mass in a Mammalian