Evolutionary Developmental Biology

All animal species develop from a single cell, the fertilized egg, and share genes which regulate development. A large number of genes encoding components of molecular and cellular mechanisms involved in development are highly conserved among animal species. Yet, nature shows us an astonishing variety of animal forms. The basis for this variety lies in genome diversification through mechanisms such as gene duplication and mutation events, which generate opportunities for further modification and refinement of developmental schemes, resulting in new forms and functions, if the new phenotypes are successful under natural selection.

Evolution and diversification of animal forms occurs through changes in development. By studying developmental biology in an evolutionary context, we gain a much better understanding of the mechanisms at work in animal development. In this course, the students will learn about general aspects of development across the animal kingdom: from worms and flies to fish, birds, and mammals. It goes without saying that this approach also provides an illuminating picture of our own development.