Embryology serves as the key to unlocking the intricate molecular mechanisms orchestrating cell formation and differentiation during early development. The advent of advanced genomic approaches and sequencing technologies has significantly enriched our understanding of these processes. Exploring the intricate genomic details of embryonic development can shed some light on the fascinating mechanisms that drive the differentiation of a single cell into a whole new and complete organism. Understanding these processes has been instrumental in uncovering the genetic foundations of developmental disorders and congenital anomalies. This knowledge holds significant implications for advancing clinical diagnostics and guiding therapeutic interventions. In addition, comparisons between embryological development in different species can also inform the evolution of embryology itself through the ages.
A deeper exploration into the genomic underpinnings of embryogenesis, spanning both human and animal models, therefore offers insights into the conserved principles governing development across species. Furthermore, breakthroughs in understanding embryogenesis in preliminary model organisms, such as echinoderms, zebrafish, or fruit flies, have paved the way for comparative analyses. This approach provides valuable perspectives on the evolution of developmental processes, unraveling shared genetic elements and unique adaptations.
In support of the UN Sustainable Development Goal 3 (SDG 3), ‘Good health and well-being’, BMC Genomics invites submissions for our upcoming Collection, Genomics of embryology. This collection aims to showcase innovative research delving into genomic mechanisms shaping early cell differentiation, signaling pathways, epigenomic regulation, and comparative genomics across species. We invite researchers and experts in the field to submit original research articles that explore, but are not limited to, the following topics:
- Single-cell omics in embryogenesis
- Epigenetic landscape of early development
- Comparative genomics across species
- Genomic insights into developmental signaling
- Functional genomics of embryonic stem cells
- Genomic basis of neurodevelopmental disorders
- Evolutionary genomics of embryonic development
- Genomic approaches to studying limb development
- Chromatin architecture in embryogenesis
- Genomic insights into transcriptional regulations during embryogenesis
- Genomic basis of germ cell origin and differentiation
Image credit: Natalia Sinjushina / stock.adobe.com
