Course Description

Developmental Biology covers the molecular mechanisms that regulate vertebrate embryonic development from conserved evolutionary processes to defects and genetic mutations in human development and disease. Specific topics in Developmental Biology II include cardiovascular, somite, and organ development; stem cell and induced pluripotent stem cell generation; cloning and genetic manipulations; regeneration. Each module will also include discussions of current literature, with emphasis on processes and mechanisms underlying vertebrate development. The combination of Modern Developmental Biology I and II is suitable for students preparing to pursue careers in research, medicine, and/or health, trainees studying mouse models with developmental defects, and those wishing to expand their understanding of growth and development of complex organisms. 

Learner Outcomes

• Explain the strategy used for specific application of stem cell treatment for disease or injury repair, what physiological processes are affected by stem cell related treatment. and understand the potential pitfalls and risks of stem cell approaches.
• Compare and contrast cell-cell signaling processes that contribute to regulatory mechanisms in specific mesoderm and endoderm organ development for digestion and respiration, and evaluate which diseases may result from dysregulation of specific cell-cell signaling processes.
• Apply concepts of embryonic development to evaluate the impact of genetic and environmental causes of birth defects to adult diseases and the potential inheritance in future generations.
• Assess the published literature in developmental biology, find relevant information, identify the main hypothesis proposed, analyze whether the data support or refute the hypothesis, and identify potential areas for further investigation.

Microcredential(s)

This course may apply toward the Biomedical Sciences Endeavor digital badge.

Textbook Information

A textbook is required or recommended for this course.

Click here to view a textbook list for FAES courses and purchasing information. Please note that tuition does not include textbooks.