Human Development Flashcards
What is fertilization?
The union of sperm and egg cells, resulting in a zygote /w 46 chromosomes.
What is a zygote?
The single cell formed by the fusion of sperm and egg during fertilization, which undergoes mitosis to form an embryo.
What is cleavage?
Rapid cell division of the zygote without increasing its size leading to a cluster of smaller cells.
Describe the formation of a morula.
After several cell divisions, the zygote becomes a solid ball of cells called a morula.
What is a blastocyst?
A structure formed when the morula fills with fluid, consisting of a trophoblast (outer layer) and inner cell mass.
Define implantation.
The process by which the blastocyst attaches to the uterine lining, enabling further development.
What is human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), and why is it important?
A hormone secreted by the trophoblast that maintains the corpus luteum, supporting early pregnancy.
What happens during gastrulation?
The embryo forms three primary germ layers (ectoderm, mesoderm, endoderm), setting the stage for organ formation.
What are the primary germ layers and their functions?
Ectoderm forms skin and nervous tissue, mesoderm forms muscles and bones, and endoderm forms internal organs.
Define morphogenesis and differentiation.
Morphogenesis is the development of form and structure, while differentiation is cell specialization for specific functions
What is neurulation?
The formation of the neural tube from the ectoderm, leading to the development of the brain and spinal cord.
What are the main changes during the fetal period (weeks 9-birth)?
Organ growth and maturation, with emphasis on brain and skeletal development and fat accumulation.
Describe the role of the placenta
The placenta supplies nutrients and oxygen, removes waste, and produces hormones essential for pregnancy.
What is the function of the umbilical cord?
It connects the fetus to the placenta, transporting nutrients, oxygen, and waste between the mother and fetus.
What are teratogens?
Agents like alcohol, drugs, and pollutants that can cause developmental abnormalities or birth defects.
What are the effects of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)?
FASD causes growth deficiencies, brain damage, learning disabilities, and social challenges.
What hormones are involved in parturition?
Oxytocin (triggers contractions) and prostaglandins (enhance contractions and cervix dilation).