Chapter 22, Problem 13TYPSS

Summary Introduction

To review:

The effects on the segmentation of the larva caused by the mutation of Drosophila genes that result in the spreading of bicoid mRNA (messenger ribonucleic acid) from the anterior end to the posterior end

Introduction:

A morphogen is a chemical that establishes polarity in a cell. Its non-uniform distribution (a concentration gradient across the cell) thus helps in the formation of patterns in an embryo. This pattern formation by the differential distribution of morphogen acts as a signal that helps localize the organs correctly in a developing embryo.