One of the most fascinating subjects in biology is the study of the mechanisms that determine the position of cells during embryonic development. That is, how a single cell forms a complete individual and how these cells identify the path they have to follow. Some cells are born in their definitive place, but many others are born a long way away from their final location, and have to travel long distances until they reach their destination. In this lecture, the speaker will be showing images of normal embryonic development and of how migrating cells become detached from their places of origin and commence their journey. These migration processes are regulated by genes which, if they are not functioning correctly, prevent the development of the embryo. However, once they have carried out their function in the embryo, they must be switched off, as if they remain active during adult life, this can result in various pathologies, including the degeneration of organs and the development of cancer.
Cycle: Challenges of The 21st Century. The Voice of Science
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