Embryo development refers to the process of growth and differentiation of an embryo from fertilization to the end of the eighth week of gestation. The word "embryo" is pronounced /ˈɛm.brɪ.oʊ/ with stress on the first syllable and the last syllable being pronounced as "oh". "Development" is pronounced /dɪˈvɛl.əpmənt/ with stress on the second syllable and the "p" being silent. The spelling of the word "embryo development" follows the standard English orthography rules and represents the sounds of the words accurately.
Embryo development refers to the series of biological processes that take place after fertilization, leading to the formation and growth of an embryo within a developing organism. It encompasses the transformation of a fertilized egg into a multicellular structure that eventually develops into a full-fledged organism. This stage of development includes several crucial events, such as cell division, cell differentiation, and organ formation.
In most organisms, embryo development starts with the fusion of sperm and egg, resulting in the formation of a zygote. The zygote undergoes rapid cell division through a process called cleavage, leading to the formation of a solid ball of cells known as the morula. The morula then undergoes further cell divisions and rearrangements to form a hollow, fluid-filled structure called the blastocyst.
Following blastocyst formation, the embryo starts implantation into the uterine wall in mammals, while in other organisms, it may develop outside the maternal body. The subsequent stages of embryo development involve the organization and differentiation of cells into specific tissues and organs through intricate molecular, cellular, and tissue interactions. By the end of this process, the embryo has established its basic body plan and is ready for further growth and maturation.
Embryo development is a fundamental process in the life cycle of sexually reproducing organisms, allowing the transmission of genetic information to the next generation. It is a highly complex and tightly regulated process that is influenced by various factors, including genetic, epigenetic, and environmental cues. Understanding the mechanisms underlying embryo development is critical for advancements in various scientific and medical fields, such as reproductive biology, genetics, and regenerative medicine.
The word "embryo" comes from the Greek word "embruon", which means "young one". The term "development" is derived from the Latin word "developmentum", which means "unfolding" or "growth". Therefore, the etymology of "Embryo Development" refers to the process of growth and unfolding of a young organism.