This course focuses on the molecular and cellular principles behind how a single cell becomes a multicellular organism with specialized tissues and organs. Emphasis will be given to model organisms to understand the underpinnings of developmental mechanisms and how this relates to human disease and adult anatomy. Topics will include: the origin and roles of stem and progenitor cells in development and maintenance of specific organ systems; the roles of cell shape change, cell death, proliferation, and migration in generating shape of embryo, organs, and tissues; and the mechanisms by which cells become different from and communicate with one another to coordinate their activities in time and space in embryo. Prerequisite: Successful completion (C- or better) of BIOL-310 with lab and BIOL-315 with lab. Fall.