
Episode 155: Embryology and Development
From The Science of Everything Podcast by James Fodor
October 24, 2025 · 1h 10m · Episode 158
About this episode
This episode introduces the process of embryonic development from fertilisation to organogenesis, discussing key stages and genetic mechanisms involved.
An introduction to the process of development, beginning with fertilisation and covering the stages of blastocyst formation, implantation into the uterus, gastrulation and its constituent cell movements, neurulation and the role of the notochord, and the beginnings of organogenesis. We also discuss the differences in gastrulation between protostomes and deuterostomes, along with the many specialised structures found in amniotes to protect the growing embryo from drying out. We conclude with overview of some of the genetic mechanisms government the development process, including Hox genes and their role in governing genetic regulatory networks. Recommended prelistening is Episode 25: Tissues, Organs, and Systems. If you enjoyed the podcast please consider supporting the show by making a PayPal donation or becoming a Patreon supporter. https://www.patreon.com/jamesfodor https://www.paypal.me/ScienceofEverything
People in this episode
Host: James Fodor
Topics covered
- embryology
- development
- fertilisation
- gastrulation
- organogenesis
- genetic mechanisms
Keywords
- embryology
- development
- gastrulation
- organogenesis
- Hox genes
- blastocyst
- notochord
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Patreon, PayPal
Books & works: Episode 25: Tissues, Organs, and Systems
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