Vertebrate Development

Learning Outcomes

Learning Outcomes

Having successfully completed this module you will be able to:

• Describe gametogenesis and fertilization, and explain the molecular mechanisms of germ cell specification and sex determination
• Understand the role stem cells play in development, and evaluate the main advantages and limitations of the different types of stem cells for medical research
• Explain the molecular and cellular mechanisms of gastrulation, neurulation and limb formation
• Explain and contrast the major processes of mammalian development from fertilisation to foetal organogenesis across vertebrates
• Analyse vertebrate development using microscopic techniques
• Explain the role of differential gene expression, genomic imprinting and other epigenetic controls in development
• Explain how master control genes coordinate the formation of the body plan during development

The module has 22 lectures of 45 minutes over eleven weeks, with the first ones addressing general concepts of development, followed with those addressing specific topics. The lectures incorporate specific learning outcomes with a progression of topics from molecular and cellular aspects of development to neural tube formation, through gastrulation. The module has a final revision session of 2 hours. The teaching content is research-led, building on the most up-to-date research findings in the field. Students will have access to a list of selected literature for further reading around each topic. The lectures are complemented with two lab-based practical sessions, which allow students to construct on their theoretical knowledge and develop critical thinking and analysis abilities based on microscopic observations of gametogenesis and live embryos developing at various stages.

Lecture Contents

1/ Introduction to the main concepts in development at a cellular and organism level

2/ Gametogenesis and Fertilisation

3/ Early development from cleavage to implantation- contraception

4/ Vertebrate gastrulation

5/ Extra-embryonic development- placenta, yolk sac and germ cells

6/ Epigenetic control of development

7/ Body plans and Segmentation

8/ Neural Development

9/ Limb development

10/ Stem cells

11/ Model organisms

Practical Contents:

Two practical sessions will incorporate microscopic observations of gametogenesis and live embryos developing at various stages.

Lectures

Practical sessions

Summative

This is how we’ll formally assess what you have learned in this module.

Referral

This is how we’ll assess you if you don’t meet the criteria to pass this module.