Developmental biology

This compulsory S6 unit explores the fundamental processes of embryonic development.

All the major stages of embryogenesis will be covered, such as axis formation, gastrulation, neurulation, organogenesis, as well as basic concepts: induction, determination, differentiation, morphogenesis, etc.

The course will focus on a molecular and cellular interpretation of developmental processes, as well as on the importance of an evolutionary approach to embryogenesis. 

The course will therefore systematically make connections between its various disciplines, as well as with the material taught in genetics courses.

The lectures will present the main principles, focusing on the two best-understood models of development in vertebrates (amphibians) and invertebrates (flies), including a historical perspective, while the tutorials will focus on evolutionary aspects (comparison of different modes of development and understanding the logic of evolutionary constraints), as well as experimental approaches to modern molecular and cellular developmental biology.

- Knowledge:

• Molecular biology:

- Apply the concepts of genetic program regulation in the context of physiological processes

• Cell biology:

-Understand and assimilate the major concepts of how signaling pathways work

-Understanding the impact of an interaction between a ligand and its receptor (conformation change, activation, etc.)

-Know the major signaling routes

-Understanding how certain signaling mechanisms can be analyzed, in particular using Western blot and immunofluorescence approaches.

-Expertise:

• Molecular biology:

- Understanding the use of molecular biology and genetics techniques in the practical study of biological systems

• Cell biology: Ability to read and interpret results obtained through experimental approaches such as Western blots and immunofluorescence.

-Interpersonal skills:

• Understand the various concepts presented and use them to be able to propose hypotheses about how molecular and cellular processes work.
• Successfully linking the various molecular mechanisms presented
• Communicate with teachers and other students to carry out reflection exercises. Be able to formulate a hypothesis based on your knowledge.

•Be able to summarize the functioning of a molecular mechanism in the form of a model diagram

Cell and Molecular Biology 1 and 2, Genetics