Summary
The formation of organs from the germ layers after gastrulation.
In depth
Tissues interact through induction. Many organs form from epithelial-mesenchymal interactions, such as branching of lungs and kidneys. Organs develop in a defined sequence; the heart and neural tube first.
Organs form through folding, branching, tubulogenesis and cell death. Timing is crucial: errors cause malformations. Many organs form first as primordia, then grow and mature.
Remember: the critical period for each organ is when it is most vulnerable to teratogens.
Frequently asked questions
What is Organogenesis?
The formation of organs from the germ layers after gastrulation.
Which area of biology covers Organogenesis, and how advanced is it?
Organogenesis is one of the 54 topics in Developmental Biology. It is rated Beginner, so it suits learners who are starting out in biology. Related topics in this area include Embryo, Germ Layers and Their Fates, Gastrulation.
Can you give an example of Organogenesis?
Eye formation requires lens induction by the optic cup.
What should I learn before Organogenesis?
Organogenesis is a Beginner topic, so no earlier topic is required. Other Beginner topics in Developmental Biology that pair well with it include Fertilisation, Zygote, Embryo.
What topics are related to Organogenesis?
The closest topics to Organogenesis are Embryo, Germ Layers and Their Fates, Gastrulation, Induction. Comparing them side by side is a good way to see how the ideas connect.
How can I check that I understand Organogenesis?
Read the summary and the in-depth section, then use the quick check on the interactive lesson for Organogenesis. To practise the whole of Developmental Biology, use the Developmental Biology quiz.
How is Organogenesis different from Embryo?
Organogenesis: The formation of organs from the germ layers after gastrulation. Embryo: The early developmental stage of an organism produced by division of the zygote. Read both side by side and note what each one explains.
How should I study Organogenesis step by step?
First, read the summary and write the definition in your own words. Second, read the in-depth section and note any example. Third, compare it with Embryo and explain the difference aloud. Finally, take the Developmental Biology quiz and come back to this page for any question you miss.