In this chapter, we have focused on large-scale as well as the inter- and intracellular events that take place during embryogenesis and the formation of adult structures. In particular, we discussed how the adult body plan is laid down by a cascade of gene expression, and the role of cell–cell communication in development. Based on your knowledge of these topics, answer several fundamental questions:

How did we learn about the levels of gene regulation involved in vulval development in C. elegans?

Key Concepts

Gene Regulation

Gene regulation refers to the mechanisms that control the expression of genes, determining when and how much of a gene product is produced. In the context of development, this regulation is crucial for ensuring that specific genes are activated or silenced at the right times and in the right cells, which is essential for proper embryonic development and the formation of structures.

C. elegans as a Model Organism

C. elegans, a small nematode worm, is widely used as a model organism in developmental biology due to its simple anatomy, transparent body, and well-mapped genome. Studies on C. elegans have provided significant insights into genetic pathways and cellular processes, particularly in understanding how gene regulation influences developmental events such as vulval formation.

Cell-Cell Communication

Cell-cell communication is the process by which cells send and receive signals to coordinate their activities during development. In C. elegans, signaling pathways, such as the LIN-3/EGF pathway, play a critical role in vulval development by mediating interactions between cells, influencing gene expression, and determining cell fate decisions.