Tbx1 and Bmp2 in the development of the ear, neural crest and pharyngeal system in mice

Dissertation presented to obtain the Ph.D degree in Biology

Development of the vertebrate head involves complex interactions between tissues derived from the three germ layers. Significantly, alterations in the development of this region of the embryo are often associated with a wide variety of human congenital birth defects. Some of them are inherited disorders such as Treacher Collins, Branchio-oto-renal and DiGeorge syndromes. During embryonic development, morphogenesis of the craniofacial area occurs sequentially with the formation of a variety of transient structures, which then undergo complex sequential reorganization to form the adult structures.(...)