Parallels With Embryonic Development
Much of the research central to embryonic stem cell differentiation and morphogenesis is derived from studies in developmental biology and mammalian embryogenesis. For example, immediately after the blastocyst stage of development (from which ESCs are derived), the embryo undergoes gastrulation, whereby cell specification of the inner cell mass results in the formation of the visceral endoderm and epiblast. As the anterior-posterior axis is formed, the embryo develops a transient structure known as the primitive streak. Much of the spatial patterning the occurs during the formation and migration of the primitive streak results from the secretion of agonists and antagonists by various cell populations, including the growth factors from the Wnt and transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) families (Lefty 1, Nodal), as well as repressors of the same molecules (Dkk-1, Sfrp1, Sfrp5). Due to the similarities between embryogenesis and ESC differentiation, many of the same growth factors are central to directed differentiation approaches.
Read more about this topic: Embryoid Body
Famous quotes containing the words parallels, embryonic and/or development:
“If, while watching the sun set on a used-car lot in Los Angeles, you are struck by the parallels between this image and the inevitable fate of humanity, do not, under any circumstances, write it down.”
—Fran Lebowitz (b. 1950)
“Quintilian [educational writer in Rome around A.D. 100] thought that the earliest years of the child’s life were crucial. Education should start earlier than age seven, within the family. It should not be so hard as to give the child an aversion to learning. Rather, these early lessons would take the form of play—that embryonic notion of kindergarten.”
—C. John Sommerville (20th century)
“Understanding child development takes the emphasis away from the child’s character—looking at the child as good or bad. The emphasis is put on behavior as communication. Discipline is thus seen as problem-solving. The child is helped to learn a more acceptable manner of communication.”
—Ellen Galinsky (20th century)