Induction and morphogenesis of the inner ear
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As the precursor of the inner ear, the otic placode has long been a source of fascination for experimental embryologists. More recently the otic placode has attracted the attention of a growing number of developmental geneticists. Modern analysis of the otic placode has provided a wealth of information regarding many fundamental processes including cell migration and morphogenesis, cell signaling mechanisms, pattern formation and cell fate specification, gene regulation and integration of gene networks. The superficial structural simplicity of the otic placode belies a challenging degree of regulatory complexity. For this reason, genetics approaches have proven especially valuable in elucidating core molecular mechanisms. Fortunately, underlying mechanisms have proven to be highly conserved, facilitating meaningful cross-species comparisons and the ability to draw from the complementary strengths of several model organisms: chiefly mouse, chick, Xenopus and zebrafish. This chapter summarizes the rich literature on otic placode development from its origins in the early gastrula through early pattern formation and morphogenesis of the otic cup. 2013 by Nova Science Publishers, Inc. All rights reserved.