Human Embryology & Dev Biology

Catalog description

This elective will examine early human development and the fetal-maternal relationship, including gametogenesis, fertilization, implantation, the establishment of the basic embryonic body plan, placental formation and the morphological changes that occur during the development of the various systems of the human embryo and fetus. Genetic factors in development will be discussed, including signaling factors and morphogenetic proteins. Body systems to be discussed include integumentary, nervous, sensory, head and neck, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, and urogenital. Limb development will be examined as well as aspects of fetal physiology. Attention will be given to causes, mechanisms, and patterns of developmental disorders.