Later Mechanisms of Cardiac Development

Abstract

This chapter initially introduces the importance of animal models in understanding cardiac development. We will discuss the early stages of embryonic development, including gastru- lation, formation of the linear heart tube and the looping process. We will then explore the concept of the organiser during early vertebrate development using the example of the Spemann-Mangold organiser of the amphibian embryo. Finally, we will expand on how cells in the embryo are able to interpret morphogen gradients by introducing the French Flag Model.