We have all seen patterns in nature: from zebra stripes to spiraling flower petals to ordered rows of microscopic appendages on single celled pond organisms. But how are these patterns generated, what are they good for, and are patterns in different species related? This upper level course in cell and developmental biology will explore how patterns emerge in cells and organisms and through evolution, touching on topics in cell polarity and adhesion, cell differentiation, cell-cell signaling, morphogenesis, and growth control. BIO 83, BIO 86 or equivalent; BIO 160 or BIO 158 recommended.
3 units · Letter (ABCD/NP)
We have all seen patterns in nature: from zebra stripes to spiraling flower petals to ordered rows of microscopic appendages on single celled pond organisms. But how are these patterns generated, what are they good for, and are patterns in different species related? This upper level course in cell and developmental biology will explore how patterns emerge in cells and organisms and through evolution, touching on topics in cell polarity and adhesion, cell differentiation, cell-cell signaling, morphogenesis, and growth control. BIO 83, BIO 86 or equivalent; BIO160 or BIO158 recommended.
Offered in Winter 2026 at Stanford University.