DEV2011 · Early human development from cells to tissues

Overview

Developmental biology encompasses numerous disciplines, including embryology, anatomy, molecular and cellular biology, as well as evolution and genetics. This unit covers the key events involved in early human development, including gametogenesis, fertilisation, blastocyst formation and implantation, generation of germ layers and cellular derivatives. You will explore how the many specialised cell types in the adult human body are derived from a single fertilised egg, how molecular and cellular mechanisms regulate development, and how issues with these mechanisms can result in developmental disorders. You will learn about the development and microanatomy of a range of cell types, which provides foundational information on organ formation that you will build on in DEV2022. Finally, you will explore the roles of embryonic and adult stem cells, the potential for the use of these cells in medicine, and how cutting-edge developmental biology experiments are performed. You will gain a range of skills in studying developmental biology that are transferable to different postgraduate areas of study and career paths such as biomedical research, medicine and allied health professions, and industry. The skills gained from completing DEV2011 assessment tasks include experimental techniques, critical thinking, investigative research skills, communication and project management.

Areas of study: Developmental biology Immunology

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

The Handbook lists no prerequisite, corequisite or prohibition for this unit.

Learning outcomes

1. Describe the diverse structures of eukaryotic cells;
2. Explain how cells and extracellular matrix are arranged in primary tissues;
3. Outline the key features and stages of early human and animal development;
4. Identify specialised cell types, primary tissues and the cellular processes that produce diverse tissues;
5. Explain the origin of major tissue types and how stem cells contribute to tissue renewal;
6. Outline strategies and perform laboratory techniques to experimentally analyse gene and tissue function;
7. Demonstrate an ability to research published scientific literature and effectively communicate their findings either orally or in writing.

Workload

12 hours per week with 6 hours of directed learning (consisting of a combination of online lectures, laboratory classes, pre- and post- class activities) and six hours of self-directed study.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.