Developmental Biology I Lecture Review

Flashcards created to help review key concepts discussed in the lecture notes on developmental biology.

What is the significance of model organisms in developmental biology?

Model organisms serve as simple systems to understand more complicated ones in developmental biology.

What are the advantages of using Mus musculus (mouse) as a model organism?

Easy to maintain, high reproductive rate, mammal status, and the ability to create genetic knockouts.

What is the main disadvantage of using Gallus gallus (chicken) as a model organism?

It is not very amenable to genetic/transgenic analysis.

What type of cleavage do zebrafish undergo?

Zebrafish undergo meroblastic (discoidal) cleavage.

What key processes occur from fertilization to gastrulation?

Fertilization, cleavage, and gastulation.

What are the two main types of cleavage?

Holoblastic and meroblastic cleavage.

What is the mid-blastula transition (MBT)?

The point at which rapidly dividing cleavage stage blastomeres modify the cell cycle to introduce the normal cell cycle.

How does oogenesis differ from spermatogenesis in terms of timing?

Oogenesis begins in the fetal ovary and is not completed until fertilization, while spermatogenesis begins at puberty.

What causes polyspermy to be prevented during fertilization?

Enzymes released after sperm contact modify the zona pellucida.

How do eggs vary among different species?

Eggs vary greatly in size, with larger eggs typically containing more yolk for larval nutrition.