Developmental Biology

Catalog description

Covers the molecular and cellular events of development from fertilized egg to adult. Genetic basis of body form, cell fate specification and differentiation, processes controlling morphogenesis, growth, stem cells and regeneration are examined. Differential gene regulation, intercellular signaling and evolutionary conversation are central to discussion of mechanisms governing developmental processes. Additional topics: developmental plasticity, impact of epigenetic and environmental factors, and basis of disease gleaned from developmental biology research. Live embryos complement and reinforce concepts covered in class. Expected: BIOL0200 (or equivalent), and one course in genetics, embryology, cell biology or molecular biology. Enrollment limited to 36. (Undergraduate students register for BIOL 1310 .)