This book describes human development including sexual reproduction and stem cell research with the development of model organisms that are accessible to genetic and experimental analysis in readily understandable texts and 315 multi-colored graphics. The introductory account of model organisms selected from the entire animal kingdom presents general principles, which are then outlined in subsequent chapters devoted to, for example, sexual development; genes controlling development and their contemporary molecular-analysis methods; production of clones and transgenic animals; development of the nervous and circulatory systems; regenerative medicine and ageing. Finally the evolution of developmental toolkits and novelties is discussed including the genetic basis of the enlargement of the human forebrain.

Separate boxes are devoted to controversial questions such as the benefits and problems of prenatal diagnostics or the construction of ancient body plans.

Development and Reproduction: An Introduction

Stages and Principles of Animal Development Terms of Developmental Biology
The Start: Fertilization, Activation of the Egg and a First Series of Cell Divisions (Cleavage)
Model Organisms in Developmental Biology I: Invertebrates
Development of Important Model Species II: Vertebrates
The Human
In Preparation for New Life I: Sex Determination and Sexual Development
In Preparation for New Life II: Gametogenesis: The Development of Egg Cells and Sperm and Their Provision with Heritable Reserves
Specification of Body Axes and Localized Fate Allotment by External and Maternal Cues
Positional Information, Embryonic Induction and Pattern Formation by Cell-Cell-Communication
Controlling Signals, Signal Propagation and Signal Transduction
Development and Genes
Application- Oriented Experiments with Early Vertebrate Embryos: Cloning, Transgenic Animals
Morphogenesis: Shaping by Active Cell Movement, Differential Cell Adhesion and Cell Death
Long Distance Wanderers and the Various Fates of the Neural Crest Cells
The Nervous System and Central Sensory Organs
Heart and Blood Vessels
Stem cells, Regeneration, Regenerative Medicine
Growth Control and Cancer
Metamorphosis and its Hormonal Control
Immortality or Ageing and Death: What is Nature's Aim?
Evolution of Development.