A student encounters an animal embryo at the eight-cell stage. The four smaller cells that comprise 1 hemisphere of the embryo seem to be rotated 45° and to lie in the grooves between larger, underlying cells. If we were to separate these eight cells and attempt to culture them individually, then what is most likely to happen?

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The orientation of the smaller cells is indicative of an abnormal development, and the removal of these cells may result in the loss of critical developmental signals. Each cell may attempt to continue development, but the lack of proper signaling may result in a nonviable embryo with missing or malformed parts.

A Student Encounters an Animal Embryo at the Eight-Cell Stage