What Is Developmental Biology Flashcards
What is developmental biology?
The study of how a fertilised egg becomes an adult organism, how an adult organism reproduces, how it repairs and replaces cells or tissues, and how it ages.
Why is developmental biology important?
It leads to a better understanding of congenital birth defects, the acquisition of phenotype, and may result in novel treatments for human diseases.
What does ‘evo devo’ refer to?
The integration of evolutionary biology and developmental biology, emphasizing that one cannot understand evolution without understanding development.
What are model organisms?
Species used to study biological processes, allowing researchers to understand development through genetic, physiological, and behavioral studies.
What does ‘LECA’ stand for?
Last Eukaryotic Common Ancestor.
What distinguishes protostomes from deuterostomes?
In protostomes, the mouth forms first; in deuterostomes, the mouth forms second.
What are the advantages of using Newts and Salamanders as model organisms?
High regenerative capacity, experimental embryology, transgenesis, and external development.
What is the significance of Caenorhabditis elegans in developmental biology?
It has a sequenced genome, known cell lineage, and is good for studying ageing.
Fill in the blank: The Greek term ‘Diplo’ means _______.
double
What are the advantages of using Drosophila melanogaster as a model organism?
Genetics, transgenesis, sequenced genome, transparent for imaging, and short generation time.
What are some advantages of using Hydra in research?
Sexual and asexual reproduction, high regenerative capacity, and small size.
Which model organism is known for its adult appendage regeneration?
Parhyale hawaiensis (an amphipod crustacean).
What is the significance of Strongylocentrotus purpuratus in research?
It is a basal deuterostome with advantages in genetics, transgenesis, and imaging.
What type of organism is Ciona intestinalis?
A basal chordate known for its genetics, transgenesis, and sequenced genome.
What is the main benefit of studying frog embryos?
They can be produced in large numbers and develop externally, making them ideal for experimental embryology.
