Early Human Development from Cells to Tissues: In-Depth Notes

Introduction and Instructors

• Julia Young: Developmental biologist with a focus on stem cell biology and reproductive development.
• Sonya McEwen: Research interests include cell migration through the embryo and interactions between the nervous system and gastrointestinal tract.

Contact Information

• Best Contact Method: Use dave2011.claytonx@monash.edu for rapid responses.
• Confidentiality: Students are encouraged to discuss any difficulties affecting their study or health.

Unit Overview (DEV 2011)

• Weekly Unit Announcement: Must-read email summarizing expectations, assessments, and important information.
• Philosophy of Science: Emphasis on exploration and understanding as central to scientific inquiry, quoting Frank Herbert on the nature of knowledge.
• Developmental Biology Significance: Explores how a single fertilized egg develops into a complex multicellular organism.
• Historical Insights: Connection of mythology (e.g., Cyclops, Sirenomelia) to developmental biology; 3-4% of newborns have developmental differences.

Developmental Biology Framework

• Historical Context: Integration of embryology, cytology, genetics, and teratology in understanding human development.
• Key Questions: How does a single cell become the various tissues and organs? What mechanisms govern this process?

Concepts Covered

• Early Development: Focus on the initial cell divisions post-fertilization, establishing cell types that will develop into complex tissues and organs.
• Cell Differentiation: The process by which generalized cells undergo specialization to perform distinct functions (e.g., neurons, red blood cells).
• Gastrulation: The stage where three germ layers (endoderm, mesoderm, ectoderm) are formed, establishing foundation for organ development.

Mechanisms of Development

• Cell Division and Movement: Importance of mitosis (cell division) and directed cell movement during embryogenesis.
• Cell Communication: Interaction among cells essential for organizing into functional structures like organs.
• Apoptosis vs. Necrosis: Apoptosis as a controlled process for developing structures; necrosis seen as undesirable cell death.

Advanced Techniques and Technologies

• Emerging Technologies: Use of advanced microscopy, CRISPR technology, and single-cell RNA sequencing to study and manipulate development.
• Model Organisms: Study of simpler organisms to draw parallels to human development, aiding in understanding of complex processes.

Essential Pathways in Development

• Key Molecular Pathways:
  • TGF-beta Pathway: Significant in reproductive biology and development.
  • Hedgehog Pathways (e.g., Sonic Hedgehog): Important in development, named after a popular video game character.
  • Wnt Pathway: Important in various developmental processes.

Course Structure

• Lecture Topics: Overview of cells, fertilization, early embryonic development, embryonic cell communication, and various tissue types.
• Practical Classes: Hands-on experience aligned with lecture content, includes lab-based research projects, with aspects of scientific communication covered.

Assessment Components

• Research Project: A semester-long report worth 30%, where students track the development of a specific cell type.
• Practical Reports: Four practical reports worth a total of 40% across the semester.
• In-class Tests: Mid-semester and end-of-semester tests worth 15% each, with competency hurdles that must be passed.
• Due Dates: An overview table detailing all due assessments provided during the course.

Additional Resources

• Recommended Textbook: Carlson's developmental biology textbook; Functional Histology by Jeff Curr recommended for histological understanding.
• Scientific Literature: Students encouraged to explore literature from journals such as Development, Genes and Development, Nature, and Cell Science.