OVERVIEW

The developmental biology studies the events from fertilization to adult and is also the basis for the study of biological evolution that, driven by selection, proceeds according to the constraints of development. The course deepens the determination of body axes in different model organisms, both invertebrates and vertebrates, and the differentiation of structures derived from the three embryonic layers with reference also to the adult stem cells.

AIMS AND CONTENT

AIMS AND LEARNING OUTCOMES

Knowledge of the molecular and cellular bases of the development of the main model organisms (Drosophila, Caenorhabditis elegans, sea urchin, ascites, anfios, zebrafish, xenopus, chicken, mouse, man), with particular attention to the determination of the body axes.
Insights into the development of ectodermal, mesodermic and endodermic derivatives. In particular, the evolutionary aspects of neurogenesis and cell differentiation will be investigated.

TEACHING METHODS

Oral lectures

SYLLABUS/CONTENT

Cellular and molecular mechanisms of the development of Chordates. Primary induction in Chordates: Nieuwkoop center, Spemann organizer, vertical and horizontal signals, mesoderm regionalization (zebrafish, Xenopus, chicken, mouse, man). Ascidian cell lineage and amphioxus development. Determination of body axes.
Cellular and molecular mechanisms of neurogenesis in invertebrates (C.elegans and Drosophila). Determination of neural cell fate, symmetric and asymmetric divisions and cellular polarity.
Neurogenesis in chordates. Neurogenesis in ascidians and amphioxus. Neural induction. Neural crest. Regionalization of CNS in chordates. Differentiation of cerebral and cerebellar cortex.
Evolutionary aspects of neurogenesis.
Mechanisms of cell differentiation. Adult stem cells in ectodermal, mesodermal and endodermic tissues.

RECOMMENDED READING/BIBLIOGRAPHY

Gilbert S.F.: Biologia dello sviluppo. IV ed.it. Zanichelli Editore

Wolpert L. et al.: Biologia dello sviluppo. II ed.it. Zanichelli Editore.

Sanes D.H. et al.: Lo sviluppo del sistema nervoso. Ed.it. Zanichelli Editore

Power Point presentations and selected reviews will be delle lezioni e altro materiale bibliografico quali reviews will be available to the students through Aulaweb.

TEACHERS AND EXAM BOARD

Exam Board

SARA FERRANDO (President)

MARIO PESTARINO (President)

CRISTIANO ANGELINI

SIMONA CANDIANI

LESSONS

LESSONS START

II semester

Class schedule

DEVELOPMENTAL BIOLOGY II

EXAMS

Exam schedule