Embryonic Induction: Gastrulation and Patterning

This lecture covers the process of embryonic induction, gastrulation, and patterning of germ layers. Topics include morphogen gradients, opposing gradients, left-right asymmetry, situs inversus, cilia in the node, planar polarity, and nodal and calcium signals. The instructor discusses the role of Spemann's Organizer in secreting BMP antagonists to inhibit BMP signaling, leading to neural plate formation. The lecture also explores Xenopus embryo development, fate mapping, and the coordination of germ layer induction with patterning. Additionally, the lecture delves into mesoderm induction, signal transduction pathways involving Activin, and the precision of morphogen gradients in tissue distribution.